[Trichophyton mentagrophytes var. nodulare--an emerging cause of tinea pedis?].

BACKGROUND

The spectrum of organisms causing dermatophytoses is changing continuously.

PATIENTS/

METHODS

Two strains of Trichophyton mentagrophytes var. nodulare are characterized mycologically; both were isolated for the first time in our laboratory within the past 2 years from patients with tinea pedis.

RESULTS

Distinctive features of Trichophyton mentagrophytes var. nodulare are a bright yellow-orange pigmentation of the thallus, a marked exudation of pigment, and the development of nodular bodies. Trichophyton mentagrophytes var. nodulare is an anthropophilic variety of Trichophyton mentagrophytes causing tinea and onychomycosis.

CONCLUSIONS

Trichophyton mentagrophytes var. nodulare has been found only very rarely in Germany and is relatively unknown. An increased awareness of this dermatophyte is needed in order to track its possible spread.