After the incubation period of 1-3 weeks, dermatophytes invade peripherally in a centrifugal pattern. In response to the infection, the active border has increased epidermal cell proliferation, with resultant scaling. This creates a partial defense by way of shedding the infected skin and leaving new, healthy skin central to the advancing lesion. Elimination of dermatophytes is achieved by cell-mediated immunity.
Infected patients may have variable symptoms. Patients can be asymptomatic. A pruritic, annular plaque is characteristic of a symptomatic infection.
Tinea corporis occurs in both men and women. Women of childbearing age are more likely to develop tinea corporis as a result of their greater frequency of contact with infected children. Tinea corporis affects persons of all age groups, but the prevalence is highest in preadolescents. Tinea corporis acquired from animals is more common in children.
For more on tinea corporis, read here.
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Cite this: William James. Fast Five Quiz: How Much Do You Know About These Common Rashes? - Medscape - Nov 16, 2016.
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