For the first time in the United States, a rare fungus that results in a sexually transmitted form of ringworm has been reported.
A man in his 30s from New York City acquired the infection after engaging in sexual encounters with multiple men during trips to England, Greece, and California.
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Trichophyton mentagrophytes type VII was diagnosed as the cause of the persistent rash developed by the patient, making it the first recorded case in the US.
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Dr. Avrom Caplan, the author of a new report and an assistant professor of dermatology at the NYU Grossman School of Medicine, cautions that the situation may worsen. Despite this, he emphasizes that there is no need for the public to be overly concerned.
According to Dr. Caplan, there is currently no widespread evidence to suggest that people should be overly concerned about an insistent, itchy eruption. However, if an individual experiences this type of symptom, especially in sensitive areas like the groin, it is recommended that they seek medical advice from a doctor.
Caplan believes that the man’s infection may have been caused by sexual contact, but he also considers the possibility that it could have been contracted from a sauna the man visited two months prior to the onset of symptoms. Interestingly, none of the man’s sexual partners exhibited any signs of ringworm.
The rash has a distinct look that closely resembles an eczema flare rather than the circular patterns typically seen in ringworm infections. Although the infection is not life-threatening, there is a risk of permanent scarring.
In 2023, Dr. Caplan discovered two cases of an unconventional ringworm infection caused by Trichophyton indotineae. Although these infections are not considered STIs, they are extremely contagious and resistant to medication.
According to CDC medical epidemiologist Jeremy Gold, this latest case report is “notable”. He highlights the importance of considering fungi as a potential cause, not just viruses and bacteria, when treating patients.
One alarming potential cause of sexually transmitted diseases has caught the attention of experts. According to one expert, patients often receive numerous courses of antibacterial drugs that may not improve the fungus.
“It’s crucial to emphasize the significance of accurate diagnosis and treatment,” he emphasized. “Patients can receive the appropriate care only if clinicians keep this in mind.”
While he did not play a role in the recent case report, he still emphasized the importance of individuals taking a proactive approach towards their health. It is worth noting that Trichophyton mentagrophytes type VII can be effectively treated at present.
“See your doctor if you suspect that the rash or lesions on your skin, which are not improving, could be ringworm,” recommends the expert.
