New fungal infection raises concern as cases spread in the U.S.
A new type of fungal infection is raising concerns among doctors as cases continue to emerge across the United States.
Known as Trichophyton mentagrophytes genotype VII, or TM7, the infection is a form of ringworm that can spread through close skin-to-skin contact, including intimate and sexual contact. The CDC says recent cases have been reported primarily among gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men, although anyone can become infected.
Health officials in Minnesota have reported more than 30 confirmed or suspected cases in the Twin Cities metropolitan area, making it the largest known U.S. cluster of TM7 cases reported so far.
The infection can cause painful, itchy and scaly rashes that can be round and coin-shaped, but they can also look different from traditional ringworm and may be mistaken for conditions such as eczema or psoriasis.
Unlike some common fungal skin infections, TM7 can cause more severe and persistent inflammation and may require several weeks of oral antifungal treatment. The CDC says many infections respond to oral terbinafine, although doctors may consider other medications when patients do not improve.
Early diagnosis can help patients receive appropriate treatment and reduce the chance of spreading the infection to others.
Click here to follow the original article.