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4 Common Types of Fungal Infections on Skin

March 21, 2022
3 minutes

Types of fungal infections – A fungal infection is a type of infection caused by a fungus. Fungal infections can occur anywhere in the body, but are most common in the skin, nails, and hair. They can be either superficial or systemic. Superficial fungal infections are limited to the top layer of the skin, while systemic infections can affect the entire body.

Fungal infections are often difficult to treat and can recur. They can be caused by various fungi, including yeasts, mold, and mushrooms. Some common fungal infections include athlete's foot, jock itch, ringworm, and candidiasis (yeast infection).

Fungal infections are more common in people with weakened immune systems, such as HIV/AIDS or cancer. They can also occur in people who take certain medications, such as steroids or antibiotics. Treatment for a fungal infection often includes topical or oral antifungal medications. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the infected tissue.

Prevention of fungal infections includes good hygiene, keeping the skin clean and dry, and avoiding contact with people who have infections. People with weakened immune systems should take extra care to avoid exposure to fungi.

Types of Fungal Infections

There are various types of fungal infections, each caused by a different fungus. Some of the most common fungal infections include:

fungal infection on feet
  • Athlete's foot: A fungal infection on feet, most commonly between the toes. It is often itchy and causes scaling and cracking of the skin.
  • Jock itch: A fungal infection that affects the groin and genital area. Jock itch symptoms usually include itchiness and cause a red, scaly rash.
  • Ringworm: A fungal infection that influences the skin, causing a round, red, scaly rash. It can also influence the scalp, beard, and nails.
  • Candidiasis: Candida skin infection, or a yeast infection, impacts the vagina, mouth, or skin. It causes itching and a white, cheesy discharge.

These are just a few of the most common fungal infections. There are many others that can occur in different parts of the body. Fungal infections can be superficial or systemic, depending on how deep they penetrate into the body. Superficial fungal infections are limited to the top layer of the skin, while systemic infections can affect the entire body.

Causes of Fungal Infections

Fungal infections can be caused by a variety of different fungi, including yeasts, mold, and mushrooms. Some common causes of fungal infections include:

Candida albicans: A type of yeast that is commonly found in the body. It can cause a variety of infections, including vaginal yeast infections, oral thrush, and skin infections.

Aspergillus: A type of mold that is often found in the environment. It can cause a number of different infections, including respiratory infections, sinus infections, and skin infections.

Cryptococcus neoformans: A fungus that is commonly found in soil and bird droppings. It can cause a serious infection of the brain and spinal cord.

These are just a few of the many different fungi that can cause fungal infections. Fungi can be found almost anywhere; some are more common than others.

Fungal Infection Symptoms 

types of fungal infections

Symptoms of a Fungal Infection Vary Depending on the Type of Infection.

Athlete's Foot: This fungal infection on the feet is typically characterized by the following symptoms:

  • Scaly, peeling, and cracking feet
  • Itchiness
  • Burning
  • Broken down and red, softened skin
  • Blisters

Jock Itch: Jock itch symptoms happen most often around the area of the groin, inner thighs, and buttocks:

  • Chafing, itching, or burning around the thigh and groin area
  • Circular and raised red rash
  • Redness on the thigh or groin
  • Peeling, flaking, and cracking skin

Ringworm: Unlike its name suggests, ringworm is not a worm but a fungal infection:

  • Red, circular flat sores
  • Scaly skin
  • Overlapping patches and red skin

Yeast Infection: Yeast infections are most commonly found in the genital area, they can happen on the surface of the skin too. Candida skin infection symptoms include:

  • Rashes
  • Itchiness and burning
  • Pimple-like bumps
  • Patches that ooze clear liquid

Fungal Infection Treatment

fungal infection on feet

Most superficial fungal infections can be treated with over-the-counter antifungal creams or ointments. These can be found at your local pharmacy. You may need to see a doctor for a prescription if the infection does not go away with over-the-counter treatments. Systemic fungal infections are much more serious and require hospitalization. These infections are treated with antifungal medications that are given through an IV. It's important to visit a dermatologist for a diagnosis.

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