Skin Disorders in Elderly Persons: Part 5, Fungal Infections (Tinea Corporis)

Tinea Corporis

Tinea corporis occurs most often on the torso of elderly persons. It commonly appears as an annular plaque with a rim of scaly erythema (Figure 1). Occasionally, tinea corporis manifests with polycyclic annuli (Figure 2) or with nummular plaques, which mimic nummular dermatitis. The examination of a potassium hydroxide preparation can establish the diagnosis. Tinea corporis can be treated effectively with a topical antifungal agent.

Figure 1 – An annular plaque with a rim of scaly erythema arose on this woman's back. Tinea corporis was diagnosed.

Figure 2 – The polycyclic annuli on this patient's torso were suspected to be tinea corporis. A potassium hydroxide evaluation confirmed the diagnosis.