First case of sexually transmitted fungal infection detected in the USA

The first case of a highly contagious and rare sexually transmitted fungal infection has been identified in the USA.

The disease, Trichophyton mentagrophytes type VII (TMVII for short), is a type of ringworm that is not fatal but difficult to treat, the medical journal JAMA Dermatology reported on Wednesday, June 5.

A New York City man in his 30s developed the infection on his limbs, buttocks and genitals after traveling to England, Greece and California, the magazine reported.

It was further stated that the man had had sexual intercourse with several other people during his trip, but none of the sexual partners reported similar skin problems.

NBC News reported that after diagnosis, it took more than four months with the help of antifungal medication for the man to fully recover.

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According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 13 cases of Trichophyton mentagrophytes type VII were reported in France in 2023.

Twelve of the cases involved men who had sexual contact with other men, the organization said.

Although the fungal infection is not fatal, it can cause permanent scarring, according to JAMA Dermatology.

According to a press release from the NYU Grossman School of Medicine, Trichophyton mentagrophytes type VII can look like eczema and form a circular pattern.

Because of its appearance, it can be ignored and left untreated for months.

The rashes can easily spread to the “face and limbs (ringworm), groin (jock itch) and feet (athlete’s foot),” NYU Langone said.

Dr. Avrom Caplan, assistant professor of dermatology at NYU Grossman School of Medicine, believes that while the public should be aware of these types of infections, there is no evidence that they are widespread.