NEWS
NYC reports first U.S. case of rare sexually transmitted ringworm
New York City health officials have confirmed the first U.S. case of a rare sexually transmitted ringworm infection.
The case involves a man in his 30s who contracted the fungus trichophyton mentagrophytes type VII (TMVII) during trips to England, Greece, and California, as detailed in a study by NYU Langone Health published in JAMA Dermatology.
The patient developed an unusual red, itchy rash on his genital area, legs, groin, and buttocks upon his return. Initially mistaken for eczema, further tests identified TMVII as the cause. Despite standard antifungal treatments, it took over four months for the infection to clear, indicating the resilience of the fungus.
Dr. Avrom Caplan, assistant professor of dermatology at NYU Grossman School of Medicine and lead author of the report, highlighted the uniqueness of this case but reassured the public about its limited spread. He advised, “If you have persistent itchy eruptions in the groin area, consult a doctor.”
Dr. John Zampella, a co-author of the study, emphasized the importance of healthcare providers directly inquiring about rashes in the groin and buttocks, especially in sexually active individuals and recent travellers.
The report notes this infection as the first of its kind in the U.S., following similar cases reported in France last year, predominantly among men who have sex with men. The patient, who had multiple male partners, did not pass the infection to any of them.
Health experts believe the infection was likely transmitted sexually, though other sources such as a sauna visit could not be ruled out.
The rise of similar infections like trichophyton indotineae in India, linked to factors such as climate, hygiene, and sexual contact, is causing concern.
TMVII causes itchy and contagious rashes that can be resistant to standard treatments, posing a challenge for medical professionals. Health officials urge vigilance and proper medical consultation for unusual skin conditions in the groin area.
