Recognizing a potential new endemic threat as emerging Trichophyton mentagrophytes genotype VII dermatophyte becomes a sexually transmitted pathogen: clinical evidence, transmission drivers, and the risk of establishing a new endemic threat.

Trichophyton mentagrophytes genotype VII represents a formidable emerging sexually transmitted dermatophyte causing intense, inflammatory infections. Originally zoonotic, this pathogen has transitioned into human sexual networks, sparking significant outbreaks across Europe and North America, particularly among men who have sex with men. This trend has increased significantly between 2024 and 2026. Recent outbreaks in Barcelona, and in Minnesota suggest infections present as painful, persistent genital or facial plaques that frequently mimic other dermatoses, causing critical diagnostic delays. Cryptic transmission within dense social networks threaten to establish this fungus as a devastating chronic endemic. Unlike common tinea, these lesions of TMVII are intensely inflamed and often require three to eight weeks of systemic terbinafine. With rising global cases and increase transmission via travel, and contact, there is a compelling need for urgent clinical awareness, enhanced diagnostic screening, and proactive public health interventions. Addressing this escalating threat is the need of the hour to prevent widespread intractable transmission.