The emergence of Trichophyton tonsurans tinea capitis in Birmingham, UK

The anthropophilic fungus Trichophyton tonsurans is a cause of tinea capitis in children. Since the 1950s the organism has spread from Central to North America. A similar recent emergence of T. tonsurans has not been reported previously in the U.K. T. tonsurans was found to have become the predominant cause of tinea capitis in Birmingham, U.K., accounting for 72% of infections investigated in 1993. The symptoms and signs of the infection were variable and accurate diagnosis may be initially difficult. It is, thus, important to be aware of the emergence of T. tonsurans in the U.K., so that an early diagnosis can be made to facilitate appropriate treatment and to prevent spread of infection to close contacts.