Sexually Transmitted Dermatophyte Infections-A Scoping Review.

Abstract

Sexually transmitted dermatophyte infections are an emerging public health concern, with increasing incidence reported across multiple countries. These infections are mainly spread through direct skin-to-skin contact during sexual activity and are more commonly found in individuals with high-risk sexual practices. The likelihood of infection is heightened by frequent pubic hair grooming or regular use of shared spaces like gyms and saunas. Clinically, presentations are often severe, widespread and atypical, which may delay diagnosis or lead to misidentification. Accurate species-level identification is critical and increasingly reliant on molecular sequencing techniques, including ITS and tef1α regions, which are also valuable for strain surveillance and contact tracing. Management strategies should emphasise systemic antifungal therapy, with consideration for adjunctive topical agents or antibiotics in cases of secondary infection. Individualised treatment plans may require extended therapy durations or combination regimens to ensure clinical resolution. In addition to pharmacologic intervention, education on hygiene practices, risk of reinfection and the importance of environmental decontamination and follow-up care is essential for preventing recurrence and curbing transmission.