A highly contagious form of ringworm has been discovered in the USA that is transmitted through sexual contact

A new sexually transmitted fungal infection has been discovered in the USA.

The highly contagious form of ringworm, caused by a fungus called Trichophyton mentagrophytes type VII (TMVII), was identified for the first time in the United States.

This fungal infection, previously documented in Southeast Asia and Europe, has raised concerns among medical professionals due to its transmissibility and resistance to standard antifungal treatments. The infection can easily be confused with lesions caused by eczema.

In a recent report published in JAMA Dermatology, doctors from New York City described the case of a man in his 30s who developed scaly, red patches on various parts of his body, including his groin, genitals, buttocks, legs, arms and back.

The man had recently returned to New York from a trip to England, Greece and California and had engaged in sexual activity with multiple male partners during his travels. Although none of his partners exhibited similar symptoms, the man’s rash persisted and required medical evaluation.

A skin biopsy confirmed the presence of ringworm and the man was initially prescribed antifungal treatment.

However, the infection did not respond to the medication, so doctors identified the fungus as TMVII. Subsequent adjustments to antifungal treatment resulted in gradual improvement and highlighted the challenges posed by this new pathogen.

TMVII is a type of mold and an emerging pathogen that is particularly difficult to treat due to its resistance to common antifungals.

Although terbinafine has been shown to be somewhat effective against TMVII infections, longer periods of treatment are often required in these cases. If left untreated, scarring and abscesses may occur.

Dr. John Zampella, lead study author and associate professor of dermatology at NYU Grossman School of Medicine, emphasized the importance of prompt diagnosis and treatment to reduce the risk of scarring and transmission.

“Because patients are often hesitant to discuss genital problems, physicians need to ask directly about rashes in the groin and buttocks, especially in sexually active patients who have recently traveled abroad and report itchy spots elsewhere on the body,” Zampella said.

He stressed the need to raise awareness among health workers, especially regarding patients who are sexually active, have travelled abroad and have skin rashes.

The emergence of TMVII adds to the growing concern about dermatophyte infections and the worldwide increase in resistant strains.

Continued surveillance and research efforts are essential to better understand and effectively combat these infections, especially for higher-risk populations such as travelers and people with high-risk sexual behavior.

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