This week we will cover...  

Epidermophyton spp.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 E. floccosum is one of the common causes of dermatophytosis in otherwise healthy individuals. It infects skin and nails. The infection is restricted to the nonliving cornified layers of epidermis since the fungus lacks the ability to penetrate the viable tissues of the immunocompetent host. Disseminated infections due to any of the dermatophytes are very unlikely due to the restriction of the infection to keratinized tissues. However, invasive E. floccosum infection has been reported in an immunocompromised patient with Behcet's syndrome. As with all forms of dermatophytosis, Epidermophyton floccosum infections are communicable and usually transmitted by contact, particularly in common showers and gym facilities.