Fungal Diseases

There are many fungal diseases in humans. These include:

• Athlete's foot

• Thrush

• Ringworm

• Nail fungi

• Jock itch

You will find some basic information about these fungal diseases below.

Althlete's Foot

This is often transmitted by contact with infected skin in showers and locker rooms. Symptoms include redness, itching, scaly skin. Most common infection sites are between the toes where it is warm, moist and with a good food source (skin).

Thrush

There are several types of thrush caused by Candida species of yeast, especially Candida albicans. Thrush can affect the mouth, nails, skin and genital areas. Common symptoms include redness (similar to a rash), itching, burning, white patches. In the case of genital thrush then there may be a discharge.

Ringworm

This is a fungal infection, not as the names suggests, a worm parasite. Species of Tinea, especially Tinea corporis, cause this fungal infection of the skin. It is transmitted (spread) by direct contact with a contaminated surface, skin to skin with an infected person. Symptoms include scaly, itchy and red skin, often forming a ring. In children, if the infection is on the scalp, it can cause baldness.

Nail Fungi

Jock Itch

Aspergillosis