White piedra (or tinea blanca) is a
mycosis of the hair
caused by several
species of
fungi in the
genus ''
Trichosporon
''Trichosporon'' is a genus of anamorphic fungi in the family Trichosporonaceae. All species of ''Trichosporon'' are yeasts with no known teleomorphs (sexual states). Most are typically isolated from soil, but several species occur as a natural ...
''. It is characterized by soft nodules composed of
yeast cells and
arthroconidia that encompass
hair shafts.
Diagnosis
White piedra can occur on the hair of the scalp; ''Trichosporon ovoides'' is likely the cause in this case.
[ White piedra on scalp hair is rarely caused by ''Trichosporon inkin''; pubic hair with white piedra is what ''T. inkin'' is mainly associated with.]
Treatment
There are several approaches to treat this infectious disease. One approach involves shaving the affected areas. Another approach involves the use of antifungal medication.
See also
* ''Trichobacteriosis axillaris
''Trichobacteriosis axillaris'' is a superficial bacterial colonization of the hair shafts in sweat gland–bearing areas, such as the armpits and the groin. It is a trivial disease of worldwide occurrence that is believed to be caused by the genu ...
''
References
External links
*
Mycosis-related cutaneous conditions
Human hair
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