A new sexually transmitted fungal infection has been detected in the United States.
The highly contagious form of ringworm, caused by a fungus known as Trichophyton mentagrophytes type VII (TMVII), has been identified in the United States for the first time.
This fungal infection, previously documented in Southeast Asia and Europe, has raised concerns among medical professionals due to its transmissibility and resistance to standard antifungal treatments. The infection can easily be confused with lesions caused by eczema.
In a recent report published in JAMA Dermatology, doctors in New York City detailed the case of a man in his 30s who developed scaly, red patches on various parts of his body, including the groin, genitals, buttocks, legs, arms, and back.
The man had recently returned to New York after traveling to England, Greece, and California, and had engaged in sexual activity with multiple male partners during his travels. Although none of his partners exhibited similar symptoms, the man’s rash persisted and prompted medical evaluation.
A skin biopsy confirmed the presence of ringworm, and the man was initially prescribed an antifungal treatment.
However, the infection did not respond to the medication, leading doctors to identify the fungus as TMVII. Subsequent adjustments to the antifungal regimen resulted in gradual improvement, highlighting the challenges posed by this emerging pathogen.
TMVII, classified as a mold species and an emerging pathogen, presents unique treatment difficulties due to its resistance to common antifungal drugs.
While terbinafine has shown some efficacy against TMVII infections, cases often require extended treatment periods and may result in scarring and abscesses if left untreated.
Dr. John Zampella, senior study author and associate professor of dermatology at the NYU Grossman School of Medicine, emphasized the importance of prompt diagnosis and treatment to reduce the risk of scarring and transmission.
“Since patients are often reluctant to discuss genital problems, physicians need to directly ask about rashes around the groin and buttocks, especially for those who are sexually active, have recently traveled abroad, and report itchy areas elsewhere on the body,” said Zampella.
He noted the need for increased awareness among healthcare providers, particularly regarding patients who are sexually active, have traveled abroad, and present with skin rashes.
The emergence of TMVII adds to the growing concerns about dermatophyte infections and the rise of resistant strains globally.
Ongoing surveillance and research efforts are essential to better understand and effectively manage these infections, particularly in populations at higher risk, such as travelers and individuals engaged in high-risk sexual behavior.