Dermatophytoses in Childcare Settings

Dermatophytoses are fungal infections of the hairless skin or scalp ("ringworm"). Lesions begin as small erythematous patches on the skin that spread in concentric circles, becoming covered with fine grayish scales. The hair breaks off, resulting in a patch of alopecia. These fungi are transmitted between people through direct contact with contaminated hair, body hair, or scales, or through indirect contact with hair or scales found on clothing (hats, scarves, coat hoods, caps, pillows, towels) or various objects (stuffed animals, combs, brushes, hair clips). In the event of an outbreak, it is necessary to identify "asymptomatic carriers," that is, individuals without obvious clinical lesions, but in whom the dermatophyte is found during a systematic scalp swab. In 30% of cases, these asymptomatic carriers may develop ringworm within 2 years (1-3). [...]