Trichophyton mentagrophytes type VII; New STI Found in US for the First Time

A rare fungus, called Trichophyton mentagrophytes type VII has been identified as the cause of a sexually transmitted ringworm infection in the United States.

The case report, published in JAMA Dermatology by doctors at NYU Langone Health in New York City, highlights the growing concern over anti-fungal resistance and the need for clinicians to consider fungi as a potential cause of sexually transmitted diseases.

The patient, a 30-year-old man from New York City, developed a red, itchy rash on his legs and groin area after engaging in sexual activities with multiple partners during a trip to England, Greece, and California.

This STI was identified as Trichophyton mentagrophytes type VII, a rare fungus that has never been reported in the US before.

The patient’s infection responded to standard anti-fungal medications, but it took four and a half months to heal fully.

The treatment regimen included fluconazole, terbinafine, and itraconazole, all oral anti-fungals.

Also read; First Wilson’s Disease case Recorded at KBTH

“We think a lot about antibacterial resistance, but this is a very important time for us to think about anti-fungus resistance,” said Dr. Mahmoud Ghannoum, a professor of dermatology at Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine. “This is a wake-up call for clinicians to consider anti-fungal resistance as a growing concern.”

Dr. Avrom Caplan, an assistant professor of dermatology at NYU Grossman School of Medicine and author of the new report, emphasized that there is no evidence that this is widespread or something that people should be worried about.

However, if people are experiencing itchy eruptions in areas like the groin and it’s not getting better, they should see a doctor.

“This is not life-threatening, but it can cause permanent scarring,” said Dr. Caplan. “If you have a rash or lesions on your skin that aren’t getting better, and you think it might be ringworm, see your doctor.”

Dr. Jeremy Gold, a medical epidemiologist at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), stressed that doctors should not overlook fungal infections when treating patients with skin lesions.

“Oftentimes, what happens is that these patients receive multiple courses of antibacterial drugs which are not going to make the fungus better,” said Dr. Gold. “Clinicians should keep this in mind so that patients can get appropriate care.”

The new case report highlights the importance of awareness and early treatment. Dr. Caplan also encouraged people to speak up and seek out treatment.

“The rash may look more like an eczema flare than typical ringworm infections that form in circles,” said Dr. Caplan.

“The possibility of acquisition at a sauna visited two months prior to symptoms cannot be ruled out.”

The CDC has also issued a warning, urging clinicians to consider fungi alongside viruses and bacteria as a potential cause of sexually transmitted diseases.

“For now, Trichophyton mentagrophytes type VII is treatable with standard anti-fungal medications,” said Dr. Caplan.

“But it is essential for individuals to seek medical attention if they experience any unusual rashes or lesions on their skin.” he stressed.

credit; graphic online

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