First US Case of Sexually Transmitted Fungal Infection Detected in NYC

Health experts are alerting the public to a new, highly contagious fungal infection after a man in his 30s in New York City developed a sexually transmitted form of ringworm. This marks the first reported case of this infection, known as Trichophyton mentagrophytes type VII (TMVII), in the United States.

Dr. Avrom S. Caplan, an assistant professor in NYU Grossman School of Medicine’s dermatology department, co-authored a case study on this infection. He emphasized that healthcare providers need to be aware of TMVII, which has been causing severe skin infections in Europe, particularly among men who have sex with men.

The case study describes an unidentified New Yorker who developed a rash on his penis, buttocks, and limbs. He had traveled to England, Greece, and California, and reported sexual activity with men during his travels, none of whom had disclosed similar skin issues.

Dr. John G. Zampella, the senior author of the study, highlighted the importance of physicians directly asking sexually active patients about rashes in the groin and buttocks area, especially if they have traveled recently and report itchy skin elsewhere on their body.

TMVII infections generally respond to standard antifungal treatments like terbinafine (Lamisil), but these infections can take months to clear up and are sometimes mistaken for eczema, potentially delaying effective treatment.

Additionally, researchers have been studying another fungal infection, Trichophyton indotineae, which is prevalent in India and was first identified in the US last year. This strain often resists terbinafine treatment. Analyzing data from 11 patients treated in NYC hospitals, researchers found that while terbinafine was ineffective for most, the antifungal drug itraconazole showed better results, though it can have side effects such as nausea and diarrhea.

Dr. Caplan noted that while the current rates of TMVII and Trichophyton indotineae in the US are low, dermatologists should remain vigilant. His team plans to continue researching these fungal infections to improve treatment strategies.

“These findings provide new insights into how fungal infections from South Asia can evade standard treatments. Physicians must recognize these infections’ symptoms and tailor treatments to address patients’ quality of life,” Caplan said.