TRICHOPHYTON TONSURANS Meaning and
Definition
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Trichophyton tonsurans is a species of dermatophyte fungus that is known to cause a common fungal infection of the skin and scalp called tinea capitis, or more commonly known as ringworm. This fungus belongs to the genus Trichophyton, which encompasses various species capable of infecting the human skin, nails, and hair shafts.
T. tonsurans primarily affects children and is highly contagious, easily spreading through direct contact with an infected person or indirectly through contaminated items such as combs, hats, or pillows. This fungus thrives in warm, moist environments, making it particularly common in areas such as schools, daycare centers, and sports facilities.
The infection caused by T. tonsurans typically presents as circular, scaly patches on the scalp, often accompanied by hair loss or breakage. It can cause itching, redness, and inflammation in the affected area. In some cases, the infection may also spread to other parts of the body.
Diagnosis of T. tonsurans infection is usually confirmed through microscopic examination or culturing of a skin or hair sample. Treatment often involves the use of antifungal medications, such as oral griseofulvin or terbinafine, as well as topical creams or shampoos containing antifungal agents.
Prevention of T. tonsurans infection involves maintaining good hygiene practices, such as regular handwashing, avoiding sharing personal items, and promptly treating any suspected cases to prevent further spread.
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A variety of the ringworm fungus, said to be a distinct species, causing tinea tonsurans.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for TRICHOPHYTON TONSURANS
- rrichophyton tonsurans
- frichophyton tonsurans
- grichophyton tonsurans
- yrichophyton tonsurans
- 6richophyton tonsurans
- 5richophyton tonsurans
- teichophyton tonsurans
- tdichophyton tonsurans
- tfichophyton tonsurans
- ttichophyton tonsurans
- t5ichophyton tonsurans
- t4ichophyton tonsurans
- truchophyton tonsurans
- trjchophyton tonsurans
- trkchophyton tonsurans
- trochophyton tonsurans
- tr9chophyton tonsurans
- tr8chophyton tonsurans
- trixhophyton tonsurans
- trivhophyton tonsurans
Etymology of TRICHOPHYTON TONSURANS
The word "Trichophyton" comes from the Greek word "trikhos", meaning "hair", and "phyton", meaning "plant" or "organism". This term refers to the fact that Trichophyton species are fungi that commonly infect the hair, skin, and nails.
The term "tonsurans" is derived from the Latin word "tonsurare", meaning "to shear" or "to cut". In this context, it refers to the tendency of Trichophyton tonsurans to cause a characteristic pattern of hair loss or shearing, particularly on the scalp. This species of Trichophyton is a common cause of tinea capitis or ringworm of the scalp, which is characterized by circular bald patches with broken hair stubs.
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