Tinea Barbae

Tinea Barbae: The picture show fungal infection of the beard area.

Tinea Barbae

Tinea barbae is the superficial fungal infection of the beard and moustache area in men. It is characterized by the appearance of a swelling over the surface of the skin.

Mode of Transmission

The most common route for the transmission of tinea barbae infection is directly from man to man by sharing contaminated stuffs like towels, which occurs usually at the barber shop. Tinea barbae affects animals as well; so it may be transmitted to those dealing with these infected animals.

Symptoms

The symptoms of tinea barbae include the development of a kerion-like lesion over the surface of the skin with the overlying hair very loose. Sometimes, it is presented by a well-defined red and dry scaly patch over the surface of the skin. And, the overlying hair appears lusterless and easily broken-off. Tinea barbae may appear very similar to furuncles or boils. However, it is much less painful.

Treatment

The treatment of tinea barbae is similar to that of other superficial skin fungal infections. It depends mainly on topical and systemic anti-fungal medications to kill the fungi. Topical anti-fungal ointments such as miconazole (Monistat) are usually effective when accompanied with systemic anti-fungal drugs such as Griseofulvin (Grifulvin). It is recommended that the treatment last for six to ten weeks to eradicate the infection completely.