Mumbai Doctors report surge in fungal infections

Mumbai: As the monsoon continues, more cases of fungal infection are reported in the city, and doctors warn that the rate of fungal infections is rising. Around 10-15 cases are being reported each week. 

The Fungal infection usually manifests as erythematous rashes, skin redness caused by injury, or another inflammation-causing condition. Often presenting as a rash, erythema can be caused by environmental factors, infection, or overexposure to the sun (i.e., sunburn). Rash severity ranges from mild to life-threatening.

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The rash starts suddenly and develops over a few days. It tends to start on the hands or feet, before spreading to the limbs, upper body, and face. It starts as small red spots, which may become raised patches a few centimetres in size and often has patches that look like a target or "bulls-eye," with a dark red centre that may have a blister or crust, surrounded by a pale pink ring and a darker outermost ring. It may be slightly itchy or uncomfortable. It also occurs more frequently in areas prone to sweating like private areas, skin folds, groin, buttocks, and underarms. Around 10-15 cases are reported each week.

However, there have also been reports of intertrigo infection among city residents. Intertrigo is a common inflammatory skin condition that is caused by skin-to-skin friction (rubbing) that is intensified by heat and moisture. It usually looks like a reddish rash. Trapped moisture, which is usually due to sweating, causes the surfaces of your skin to stick together in your skin folds.

Dr. Shraddha Deshpande, consultant plastic, a reconstructive and aesthetic surgeon at the Wockhardt Hospital in Mumbai Central told Free Press Journal, "A 65-year-old gentleman was suffering with itching and multiple lesions on his hands which were reported as a case of intertrigo. He was treated with topical and oral anti-fungal medication for a few months, which enabled complete recovery and relief from symptoms."

"Moisture promotes the growth of fungi and allows the infection to flourish. It can also occur in the web spaces of toes or sole of feet - when feet remain confined to moist shoes for a long time. This condition is also called an athlete's foot. Fungal infection in the fingers and nails can lead to discolouration and deformity. This is called paronychia. Treatment of fungal infections involves topical anti-fungal creams and dusting powders and oral medications," she said.

Moreover, doctors have witnessed patients with post-COVID fiery red rashes on the body every week and said that it is caused due to high COVID antibodies in the body. The infection starts with skin changes that worsen with itching and redness, etc. Nearly 5-10 cases are reported every week.

A doctor from JJ hospital, skin department said "People self-medicate and mostly use steroid-based creams. While they get temporary symptomatic relief, the fungi's growth continues. By the time they reach us, the infection is extremely stubborn."

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