Overview
Deep dermatophytosis, also called invasive dermatophytosis or deep dermatophyte infection, is a rare and serious fungal infection where common skin fungi (dermatophytes) invade beyond the skin surface into deeper tissues such as the lymph nodes, brain, and other internal organs. Normally, dermatophytes only cause superficial infections like athlete's foot or ringworm. However, in people with certain inherited immune system defects, these fungi can penetrate deep into the body and cause life-threatening disease. The condition typically affects people who have genetic mutations that weaken a specific part of their immune defense against fungi. Patients may first notice persistent or widespread skin infections that do not respond to standard antifungal treatments. Over time, the infection can spread to the lymph nodes, bones, and even the brain. Skin lesions may appear as deep nodules, abscesses, or large crusty plaques that keep growing despite treatment. Treatment involves long-term antifungal medications, often given by mouth or through an IV. Drugs such as terbinafine, itraconazole, voriconazole, and posaconazole are commonly used. Despite treatment, the infection can be very difficult to control, and relapses are common. In some cases, the disease can be fatal, especially when it spreads to the brain or other vital organs. Early diagnosis and aggressive treatment are essential to improve outcomes.
Also known as:
Key symptoms:
Widespread or severe skin fungal infections that won't healDeep skin nodules or lumpsSkin abscesses or boils caused by fungal infectionThick, crusty skin plaquesSwollen lymph nodesFungal infection spreading to lymph nodesFungal infection of the brain (rare but serious)Recurrent ringworm-like rashes that keep coming backSevere nail fungal infectionsScalp infections with hair lossFever and general feeling of being unwellWeight lossScarring of the skin from chronic infections
Autosomal recessive
Passed on when both parents carry the same gene change; often skips generations
Variable
Can begin at different ages, from infancy through adulthood
Treatments
No FDA-approved treatments are currently listed for Deep dermatophytosis.
View clinical trials →Clinical Trials
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Specialists
View all specialists →No specialists are currently listed for Deep dermatophytosis.
Treatment Centers
8 centersBaylor College of Medicine Rare Disease Center ↗
Baylor College of Medicine
📍 Houston, TX
🏥 NORDStanford Medicine Rare Disease Center ↗
Stanford Medicine
📍 Stanford, CA
🔬 UDNNIH Clinical Center Undiagnosed Diseases Program ↗
National Institutes of Health
📍 Bethesda, MD
🔬 UDNUCLA UDN Clinical Site ↗
UCLA Health
📍 Los Angeles, CA
🔬 UDNBaylor College of Medicine UDN Clinical Site ↗
Baylor College of Medicine
📍 Houston, TX
🔬 UDNHarvard/MGH UDN Clinical Site ↗
Massachusetts General Hospital
📍 Boston, MA
🏥 NORDMayo Clinic Center for Individualized Medicine ↗
Mayo Clinic
📍 Rochester, MN
👤 Mayo Clinic Center for Individualized Medicine
🏥 NORDUCLA Rare Disease Day Program ↗
UCLA Health
📍 Los Angeles, CA
Travel Grants
No travel grants are currently matched to Deep dermatophytosis.
Community
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Caregiver Resources
NORD Caregiver Resources
Support, advocacy, and financial assistance for caregivers of rare disease patients.
Mental Health Support
Rare disease caregiving can be isolating. Connect with counseling and peer support.
Family & Caregiver Grants
Financial assistance programs specifically for caregivers of rare disease patients.
Social Security Disability
Learn how rare disease patients may qualify for SSDI/SSI benefits.
Questions for your doctor
Bring these to your next appointment
- Q1.What specific genetic mutation is causing my immune system to be vulnerable to this infection?,How far has the fungal infection spread, and what tests do I need to check for deep organ involvement?,What antifungal medications will I need, and how long will I need to take them?,What side effects should I watch for with long-term antifungal treatment?,Is bone marrow transplant an option for me or my child?,Should my family members be tested for the same genetic mutation?,Are there any clinical trials or new treatments being studied for this condition?
Common questions about Deep dermatophytosis
What is Deep dermatophytosis?
Deep dermatophytosis, also called invasive dermatophytosis or deep dermatophyte infection, is a rare and serious fungal infection where common skin fungi (dermatophytes) invade beyond the skin surface into deeper tissues such as the lymph nodes, brain, and other internal organs. Normally, dermatophytes only cause superficial infections like athlete's foot or ringworm. However, in people with certain inherited immune system defects, these fungi can penetrate deep into the body and cause life-threatening disease. The condition typically affects people who have genetic mutations that weaken a sp
How is Deep dermatophytosis inherited?
Deep dermatophytosis follows a autosomal recessive inheritance pattern. Genetic counseling can help families understand recurrence risk and testing options.