Severe tinea faciei mimicking favus-like lesions linked to rabbit exposure: A case report.

Tinea faciei caused by zoophilic dermatophytes can simulate several facial inflammatory skin conditions, such as eczema, lupus erythematosus, and cellulitis, often leading to misdiagnosis or a delayed diagnosis. A young girl around primary school age developed inflammatory, favus-like lesions on the face after the purchase of a pet rabbit. The patient had been evaluated at a local clinic where she received treatment with dexamethasone acetate cream topically twice daily for suspected eczema. Mycological examination confirmed that both the patient and her rabbit were affected by tinea corporis, which was caused by Trichophyton mentagrophytes. This case underscores the importance of considering tinea faciei in children presenting with inflammatory facial rashes, especially when there is a history of contact with pets. Moreover, it is crucial to implement protective measures to prevent children from contracting zoonotic dermatophytosis through contact with domestic animals.