Sometimes fungi proliferate uncontrolled even on the skin of the little ones. Here’s how to recognize them and how to treat the infection successfully.
Fungi are generally not dangerous microbes. Sometimes, however, they can end up proliferating uncontrollably, triggering the so-called mycoses. The problem is not exclusive to adults: the child can also have to deal with these infections.
It is rare for a fungus to extend under the skin. For this reason, when we talk about mycoses we often refer to superficial skin infections that include tigne, candidiasis and pityriasis versicolor.
Children can develop them due to taking antibiotics or in case of lowering of the immune system. In slightly older children, the infection can instead be contracted through the exchange of combs, brushes, towels and other personal items with friends, perhaps when they start practicing a sport and attending changing rooms and common showers or from contact with small pets, such as dogs, cats, bunnies, etc. ..
How to recognize the problem
Ringworm, candidiasis and pityriasis versicolor manifest themselves differently. Here’s how to recognize them:
| Mycosis | Localization | Symptoms |
|---|---|---|
| Ringworm | Head, feet, groin | Small redness, which then grows by spreading like a circle or ring |
| Candidiasis | Around the nails, in the diaper area | Red spots, which itch, with edges that tend to rise and with a surface that can be scaly |
| Pityriasis versicolor | Chest, shoulders, back | Clear, flat and oval-shaped patches, sometimes dry, scaly and itchy. More frequent in older boys |
How to deal with the fungus
When you suspect that a child is dealing with a skin mycosis it is good to consult with the pediatrician or dermatologist, who may decide to confirm the diagnosis by analyzing a few cells taken by slightly scratching the area affected by the problem.
Fortunately, even in the face of a confirmation of suspicions by the doctor there is no need to be alarmed: the treatments available are effective and generally to eliminate the fungus are sufficient topical products.
Your doctor may for example suggest the use of shampoos, creams or lotions based on antifungals such as clotrimazole, bifonazole, miconazole, ketoconazole etc. . In some cases, if a lot of inflammation is present, topical products containing antifungals and corticosteroids may be necessary. Much more rarely it is necessary to fight the fungus with drugs to be taken orally.
By following the doctor’s instructions it is possible to defeat mycosis completely. To minimize the likelihood of it returning, just follow small precautions: do not leave younger children with wet diapers, change damp or sweaty clothing, teach the baby to dry well after washing and remind him not to exchange his personal hygiene items with friends. In this way, skin fungi will have less chance of finding the right conditions to proliferate.
Joycelyn Elders is the author and creator of EmpowerEssence, a health and wellness blog. Elders is a respected public health advocate and pediatrician dedicated to promoting general health and well-being.
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