Mycosis is an inflammatory disease caused by fungus. There are many different types of mycosis, all which come with their own set of symptoms and appearances, but they all affect the skin or tissues of the body. Mycosis may be systemic, meaning that the fungal infection affects more than one area or body system, while others are localized to one general area. Understanding the most common types of skin problems caused by mycosis will encourage you to be aware of skin changes that may prove harmful to your health.
Lesions
Some forms of mycosis or fungal infections cause lesions. According to Dermnetnz.org, early or patch skin lesions may be flat in appearance and take on the shape of rings or ovals. The patches of skin in such cases are pink in color, and may or may not itch. At the plaque state, the patches of pinkish skin become harder and thicker, and itch. If not treated, the plaques may turn into tumors, which take on irregular shapes and often produce ulcers. This type of mycosis is often known as subcutaneous mycosis.
Skin Discoloration
Some fungal infections may cause dark patches or areas of skin caused by overproduction of melanin produced by some fungal molds, according to Doctor Fungus, a physician-based informational resource for greater understanding of fungal infections. Melanin is the amount of pigment found in skin cells that makes them light or dark, depending on heredity or genetics, environmental factors and overall health.
Superficial Mycoses
Superficial fungal infections or mycoses may appear much like seborrhea on some individuals, according to Mycology Online, from the University of Adelaide. Other manifestations of mycosis may include white or black piedra, or a superficial infection of the hair shaft in which hair shafts hold gray-white nodules, often called dandruff. Another type, though rarer, is tinea nigra, considered a superficial infection noted for its dark brown or black macules that appear on the hands or feet. Macules are small, elevated areas of skin discoloration on the skin.
Rashes
Some types of mycoses cause mild to severe skin rashes, such as those found in the early stages of T-cell lymphoma, according to Miramar Dermatology. This condition creates a rash that looks much like rash caused by poison ivy. Some people won't have more serious rashes, though some will, involving deeper tissue structures that result in complications. Such rashes can appear anywhere on the skin and generally start slowly, often misdiagnosed as eczema or a skin dermatitis.
