New Insights in Dermatophytes: Microsporum spp. and Nannizzia spp.

Purpose of Review Species of the Microsporum and Nannizzia complexes are some of the etiological agents of dermatophytosis, an important cutaneous infection that affects humans and other mammals and whose incidence is increasing worldwide. This article aims to review the pertinent knowledge about dermatophytosis, specifically with these etiological agents. Recent Findings The immunological mechanisms involved in the prevention and control of these infections are not fully understood. Many reports suggest that the mammalian immune system evolved with the interaction of these pathogens, and the infection depends directly on the virulence of the strain, geographic location, and environmental resources. As virulence factors, thermotolerance, melanin production, and cell wall components stand out. Treatment for dermatophytosis includes the use of topical or systemic drugs. These fungi present an increasing risk in human health care; studies in physiology, genetics and biochemistry, pathology of dermatophytosis, and immune response are essential for the development of new diagnostic measures, treatment protocols, and prevention strategies.