Best Practice Case Studies-Dermatology

Pdf Summary

The study question pertains to the treatment of a fungal skin infection, specifically tinea corporis, commonly seen among wrestlers. The correct course of action before allowing an athlete to return to competition after such an infection involves topical treatment with an antifungal medication for at least 72 hours, paired with coverage by a gas-permeable bandage during competition.<br /><br />Tinea corporis, or ringworm, is a dermatophyte infection affecting the body’s skin, excluding specific areas like the feet, groin, scalp, or nails. It is often referred to as tinea corporis gladiatorum in the context of wrestling due to its spread through skin-to-skin contact. The most common fungal cause is Trichophyton rubrum, though Trichophyton tonsurans is also prevalent in wrestlers.<br /><br />Diagnosis is typically made through a KOH preparation test, but a clinical examination is often sufficient. The primary treatment involves topical antifungal drugs, such as azoles (e.g., clotrimazole) or allylamines (e.g., terbinafine). Notably, nystatin is ineffective for this infection.<br /><br />Athletes should not return to sports like wrestling until the infection has shown a response to treatment, which usually means approximately three days of topical therapy for isolated lesions. Severe cases unresponsive to topical therapy may require oral antifungal treatment for up to two weeks. Answer B, which involves a 72-hour topical regimen and a gas-permeable bandage, aligns with current treatment standards and ensures both effective management and preventive measures before resuming athletic activities. The cited references include UpToDate's detailed dermatophyte infection articles and the National Athletic Trainers' Association statement on skin diseases.

Meta Tag

Concept Tinea Corporis

Concept Topical Antifungal Agents

Concept Dermatophyte Infection

Concept KOH Prep

Concept Return-to-Play Guidelines

Edition 3rd Edition

Related Case 3rd Edition, CASE 12

Topic Dermatology

Keywords

tinea corporis

ringworm

wrestlers

antifungal treatment

Trichophyton rubrum

skin infection

topical therapy

KOH preparation test

gas-permeable bandage

athlete competition

3rd Edition

3rd Edition, CASE 12

Dermatology

Topical Antifungal Agents

Dermatophyte Infection

KOH Prep

Return-to-Play Guidelines