Diagnosis of Dermatophytes ( Nails, Skin, and Hair)

General Information

Dermatophytes – Diagnosis of Fungal Infections of Nails, Skin, and Hair**

Dermatophytes are a group of filamentous fungi that feed on keratin—the main structural protein in the skin, nails, and hair. They cause some of the most common fungal infections in humans, known as onychomycosis, tinea, and trichophytosis. These conditions can affect patients of all ages and often require precise laboratory diagnostics for proper treatment.

At Laborexpress 2000 – Varna, we offer a modern, combined diagnostic approach that ensures fast, accurate, and reliable identification of dermatophyte infections.

1. Microscopy with Digital Camera

Allows improved visualization of fungal mycelia and hyphae.

• visual confirmation

• possibility for documentation

2. Dermatophyte Culturing

Isolation of the causative organism on specialized media. Enables observation of:

• colony morphology

• sporulation

• species‑specific characteristics

3. MALDI‑TOF Mass Spectrometry

A modern method for precise species‑level identification. Advantages:

• high accuracy

• speed

• reliability for dermatophytes, Candida, and molds

The combination of all three methods provides the highest level of diagnostic certainty.

Why Accurate Diagnosis Matters

Different dermatophytes have different sensitivities to antifungal medications. Proper identification:

• supports the selection of the most effective therapy

• reduces the risk of recurrence

• prevents transmission to other people

• saves time and unnecessary costs from incorrect treatment

Laborexpress 2000 offers:

• reliable dermatophyte diagnostics with state‑of‑the‑art equipment

• clear and structured results

• the ability to document microscopic findings

• identification via MALDI‑TOF

Dermatophytes on Nails (Onychomycosis)

Onychomycosis is one of the most common fungal infections. Dermatophytes penetrate the nail plate and gradually destroy it. Typical symptoms include:

• thickening and yellowing of the nail

• brittleness and crumbling

• discoloration

• detachment of the nail plate

Since the clinical appearance may resemble psoriasis, trauma, or bacterial infection, laboratory diagnosis is essential for proper treatment.

Dermatophytes on the Skin (Tinea)

Cutaneous dermatophyte infections appear as:

• round or oval patches

• a red, active border

• scaling and itching

• spreading to adjacent areas

Tinea can affect the feet, groin, body, and palms. Because it is often mistaken for eczema, candidiasis, or allergic reactions, laboratory confirmation is important to avoid incorrect treatment.

Dermatophytes on Hair and Scalp (Trichophytosis)

Trichophytosis is more common in children but can also affect adults. Characteristic signs include:

• patchy hair loss

• scaling and redness

• brittle hairs (“black dots”)

• itching

These infections are highly contagious and often spread in schools and childcare groups. Accurate identification of the causative organism is crucial for selecting the appropriate therapy.