Tinea in tiny tots.

Dermatophyte infections in infants and toddlers, with the exception of tinea capitis, are considered rare. We describe representative patients to illustrate the broad clinical spectrum of these infections in this age group. We review possible pathophysiologic mechanisms, diagnostic modalities, and therapeutic regimens. Our experience suggests that involvement of areas other than the scalp may be more common than current estimates suggest. Recognition of affected patients is important in view of the wide differential diagnosis and the efficacy of current treatment.