Risks of Transmission of Infection with Species of the Genus Trichophyton from Animals to Humans

Abstract

Trichophytosis (ringworm) is included in the category of dermatomycoses or superficial mycoses, being a fungal infection, produced by a microscopic fungus of the genus Trichophyton. Since in recent decades an increase in the incidence of trichophytosis has been observed in humans and susceptible animals, either with asymptomatic or symptomatic evolution, a more detailed knowledge of the important sources of transmission of this disease from animals to humans is still required, for the adoption of more effective parasitological surveillance measures for this dermatophytosis. In this sense, it is necessary to know some aspects related to the morphology, the epidemiological implications and the correct establishment of the diagnosis, but also the choice of effective therapeutic protocols to prevent, treat and combat this dermatomycosis in animals and humans. In this regard, a growing interest has been given in recent years to pets that represent a permanent risk of human contamination, but the evolution of this disease in farm animals cannot be neglected.

Keywords

• dermatomycoses
• fungal infection
• trichophyton
• trichophytosis