Intra-f amilial infection due to Trichophyton tonsurans in Korean general population

Trichophyton (T.) tonsurans is a common anthropophilic species, which causes tinea capitis and tinea corporis particularily in Europe and America, but has not been prevalent in Korea. One case with mycoses infection of the scalp and the other with tinea corporis due to T. tonsurans were observed in Korean general population. We confirmed T. tonsurans infection on the basis of the direct microscopic examination and culture from scales and infected hairs of skin lesions. Systemic itraconazole and terbinafine therapy with topical ketoconazole cream led to clinical and mycological recovery in our cases. Infection of T. tonsurans appears to have spread gradually among the general population in Korea. Therefore, athletic and medical associations should make constant observation and take close consideration about T. tonsurans infection.