Arthrodermataceae

Arthrodermataceae

Epidermophyton floccosum, a member of the Arthrodermataceae family

The Arthrodermataceae is a family of fungi within the order Onygenales. This family includes several genera of dermatophytes, which are fungi that cause infections of the skin, hair, and nails in humans and animals. The most well-known genera within this family are Epidermophyton, Microsporum, and Trichophyton.

Characteristics

Members of the Arthrodermataceae family are characterized by their ability to degrade keratin, a protein found in the outer layer of skin, hair, and nails. This ability allows them to colonize and infect these tissues, leading to various dermatophytic infections. These fungi are typically filamentous and produce conidia, which are asexual spores that aid in their reproduction and dissemination.

Genera

The Arthrodermataceae family includes several important genera:

• Epidermophyton: This genus includes species such as Epidermophyton floccosum, which is known to cause athlete's foot and other skin infections.
• Microsporum: Known for causing ringworm, this genus includes species that infect both humans and animals.
• Trichophyton: This genus includes species that cause infections of the skin, hair, and nails, such as Trichophyton rubrum and Trichophyton mentagrophytes.

Pathogenicity

The fungi within the Arthrodermataceae family are primarily pathogenic to humans and animals. They cause a range of infections collectively known as dermatophytosis. These infections are typically superficial, affecting the keratinized tissues, but can cause significant discomfort and are often contagious.

Common Infections

• Tinea pedis (athlete's foot): Often caused by Trichophyton rubrum or Epidermophyton floccosum.
• Tinea corporis (ringworm of the body): Can be caused by various species of Microsporum and Trichophyton.
• Tinea capitis (scalp ringworm): Commonly caused by Microsporum canis and Trichophyton tonsurans.

Treatment

Treatment of infections caused by Arthrodermataceae typically involves the use of topical or oral antifungal medications. Common antifungal agents include terbinafine, itraconazole, and fluconazole. The choice of treatment depends on the severity and location of the infection.

Related pages

• Dermatophyte
• Fungal infection
• Onygenales