Tinea Barbae

Tinea barbae, also known as ringworm of the beard, is a fungal infection that affects the skin under the beard, mustache, or other facial hair. It is caused by a type of fungus called dermatophytes, which can be spread through direct contact with an infected person, contaminated objects, or soil.

Causes and Risk Factors

Tinea barbae is typically caused by the following fungi: Trichophyton mentagrophytes, Trichophyton rubrum, and Epidermophyton floccosum. The risk factors for developing tinea barbae include:

• Sharing personal care items such as razors or towels
• Participating in contact sports that involve skin-to-skin contact
• Having a weakened immune system
• Taking antibiotics or immunosuppressive medications
• HAVING poor hygiene or excessive sweating

Symptoms

The symptoms of tinea barbae may include:

• Red, itchy, and inflamed patches on the skin under the beard or mustache
• Pus-filled bumps or blisters
• Crusting or scaling of the skin
• Hair loss in the affected area
• A foul odor from the infected area

Diagnosis

Tinea barbae can be diagnosed through a physical examination and laboratory tests, including:

• Potassium hydroxide (KOH) exam: A sample of skin scrapings or hair is treated with KOH to dissolve the skin cells and make the fungus more visible under a microscope.
• Fungal culture: A sample of skin scrapings or hair is sent to a laboratory to grow the fungus and identify the type of fungus causing the infection.

Treatment

Tinea barbae can be treated with antifungal medications, including:

• Topical creams or ointments such as clotrimazole, miconazole, or terbinafine
• Oral medications such as griseofulvin, itraconazole, or fluconazole

In addition to medication, it is essential to practice good hygiene and take steps to prevent the spread of the infection, including:

• Washing the affected area with soap and water
• Drying the area thoroughly after washing
• Avoiding sharing personal care items
• Avoiding close contact with others until the infection is cleared

Prevention

To prevent tinea barbae, it is essential to practice good hygiene and take steps to avoid coming into contact with the fungus, including:

• Washing hands regularly
• Avoiding sharing personal care items
• Avoiding close contact with others who have a fungal infection
• Keeping the skin clean and dry
• Avoiding excessive sweating