What are the most common fungal infections and what is the treatment?
Fungal infections are caused by various types of fungi and can affect different parts of the body. In recent years, the interest in fungal infections has been on the rise due to the warming temperatures, which provide ideal conditions for the growth and spread of these infections, as well as the popularity of The Last of Us television show, which highlights the dangers of fungal infections. Here, we'll take a look at the most common fungal infections and what makes them so prevalent.
1. Athlete's foot (tinea pedis) - It is a fungal infection that affects the skin on the feet and is commonly caused by the dermatophyte fungus. It causes itching, burning, and cracking of the skin, especially between the toes.
2. Yeast infections (candidiasis) - This is a type of fungal infection that is caused by the yeast-like fungus Candida. It can affect various parts of the body, including the mouth (oral thrush), throat, genital area, and digestive tract.
3. Ringworm (tinea corporis) - It is a fungal skin infection that causes a red, circular, and scaly rash. It can be transmitted from person to person or from contact with contaminated objects or pets.
4. Jock itch (tinea cruris) - It is a fungal infection of the skin in the groin area, causing itching, burning, and a rash. It is commonly caused by the same type of fungus that causes athlete's foot.
5. Nail fungal infections (onychomycosis) - It is a fungal infection of the nails on the hands and feet, causing thickening, discoloration, and brittle nails.
6. Aspergillosis - This is a group of fungal infections caused by the Aspergillus fungus. It can affect the lungs, sinuses, and other parts of the body, and can be particularly severe for people with weakened immune systems.
7. Cryptococcus - This is a fungal infection caused by the Cryptococcus neoformans fungus. It can cause meningitis (infection of the membrane surrounding the brain and spinal cord) and other serious infections, especially in people with weakened immune systems.
8. Histoplasmosis - This is a fungal infection caused by the Histoplasma capsulatum fungus. It can affect the lungs, causing symptoms similar to pneumonia, and can also spread to other parts of the body, especially in people with weakened immune systems.
9. Coccidioidomycosis - Also known as Valley Fever, is a fungal infection caused by the Coccidioides fungus. It is primarily found in the soil of arid regions in the southwestern United States, Mexico, and parts of Central and South America. People can get infected by inhaling fungal spores in the air, and the infection typically affects the lungs, causing flu-like symptoms such as fever, cough, fatigue, and muscle aches. In some cases, it can also spread to other parts of the body, such as the skin, bones, and nervous system. Coccidioidomycosis is usually treated with antifungal medication, and most people with healthy immune systems recover fully from the infection. However, it can be severe and even life-threatening for people with weakened immune systems.
What causes a fungal infection?
Fungal infections are caused by various types of fungi, including yeasts, molds, and dermatophytes. Some fungal infections occur naturally and are part of the normal flora found on the skin and in the environment, while others are caused by pathogens that can cause infections in people with weakened immune systems. The following are some of the factors that can contribute to the development of fungal infections:
1. Warm and moist environment - Fungi thrive in warm, moist environments, and areas that are constantly exposed to moisture, such as the feet, groin, and skin folds, are more susceptible to fungal infections.
2. Weak immune system - People with weakened immune systems, such as those undergoing cancer treatments, those with HIV/AIDS, and transplant recipients, are at higher risk of developing fungal infections.
3. Antibiotic use - Antibiotics can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria on the skin and in the body, allowing fungal infections to take hold.
4. Poor hygiene - Poor hygiene practices, such as not washing your hands regularly and not drying your skin thoroughly after bathing, can increase the risk of fungal infections.
5. Exposure to contaminated objects or animals - Touching or coming into contact with contaminated objects or animals, such as contaminated towels, clothing, and pets, can also increase the risk of fungal infections.
What are the treatment options for a fungal infection?
The treatment options for fungal infections vary depending on the type of infection and its severity. Some common treatment options include:
1. Antifungal medication - Antifungal medication, such as topical creams, oral tablets, and injections, can be used to treat fungal infections. Some common antifungal medications include terbinafine, clotrimazole, amphotericin B, fluconazole, and itraconazole.
2. Topical antifungal treatments - Topical antifungal treatments, such as creams, lotions, and powders, can be applied directly to the affected area to treat skin and nail fungal infections.
3. Home remedies - For mild fungal infections, home remedies, such as keeping the affected area clean and dry and using vinegar or tea tree oil, can be effective.
4. Surgical removal - In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove severely infected nails or skin.
It's important to note that self-treating a fungal infection with over-the-counter antifungal medications can sometimes make the infection worse. If you suspect you have a fungal infection, it's best to see a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment. The doctor may also prescribe antifungal medication for a longer period of time to ensure complete resolution of the infection.
Are there any better antifungal medications in development?
In November of 2022, the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA), a division of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, announced they were seeking to fund anyone who was developing novel antifungal drugs to treat high-priority fungal infections. This announcement signaled a major shift in the focus of BARDA's efforts to combat the growing threat of fungal infections.
Matinas BioPharma is a biopharmaceutical company that is developing an oral version of amphotericin B, an antifungal medication. Amphotericin B is currently available only in intravenous form and is used to treat serious fungal infections such as aspergillosis and candidiasis. The intravenous form of amphotericin B is known for its toxic side effects, including kidney damage and low blood pressure, which limit its use and make it unsuitable for some patients.
An oral version of amphotericin B would be a game changer in the antifungal space because it would provide a less toxic alternative to intravenous amphotericin B, making it accessible to a wider range of patients. The oral form of the medication would be easier to administer, reducing the need for hospitalization, and would also be more convenient for patients, as they could take it in the comfort of their own home.
The oral version of amphotericin B being developed by Matinas BioPharma is based on the company's proprietary lipid nano-crystal (LNC) technology, which is designed to increase the bioavailability and reduce the toxicity of the medication. The LNC technology works by encapsulating the medication in a lipid nano-crystal, which protects it from degradation in the digestive system and increases its absorption into the bloodstream.
Understanding these infections and how they are caused can help in preventing and treating them effectively. With the rise in temperatures, it is important to be aware of these infections and take the necessary steps to protect oneself. By staying informed and taking precautions, we can help prevent the spread of these infections and promote overall health and wellness.
