Skin, Hair and Nail Fungal Infections *

Abstract

Fungal infections of the skin, hair and nails are among the most common skin diseases. The increased incidence of these infections in recent years has been attributed to the large number of immunocompromised patients, life-style changes (greater attendance at gymnasiums, public baths, etc.), the use of chemotherapeutic agents, and the greater presence of elderly people in the general population. Superficial fungal infections were also the most frequent and troublesome dermatological condition occurring among US forces during the war in Vietnam.