ICD-10: B35.2

Tinea manuum, classified under ICD-10 code B35.2, is a dermatophyte infection that specifically affects the skin of the hands. This condition is part of a broader category of fungal infections known as dermatophytosis, which are caused by fungi that thrive on keratin found in skin, hair, and nails.

Clinical Description

Etiology

Tinea manuum is primarily caused by dermatophytes, which are a group of fungi that can infect the skin. The most common species responsible for this condition include Trichophyton rubrum and Trichophyton mentagrophytes. These fungi can be transmitted through direct contact with infected individuals or contaminated surfaces, such as towels, clothing, or gym equipment[1][2].

Symptoms

The clinical presentation of tinea manuum typically includes:

• Itching and Burning: Patients often report pruritus (itching) and a burning sensation in the affected area.
• Redness and Inflammation: The skin may appear red and inflamed, particularly around the edges of the lesions.
• Scaling and Peeling: Affected areas may exhibit scaling, flaking, or peeling skin, which can be more pronounced in chronic cases.
• Blisters: In some instances, small blisters may develop, leading to oozing and crusting.
• Nail Involvement: Occasionally, tinea manuum can be associated with onychomycosis (fungal nail infection), particularly if the infection spreads from the skin to the nails[3][4].

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of tinea manuum is primarily clinical, based on the characteristic appearance of the lesions. However, laboratory confirmation can be achieved through:

• KOH Examination: A potassium hydroxide (KOH) preparation of skin scrapings can reveal fungal hyphae and spores under a microscope.
• Fungal Culture: Culturing the fungus from skin samples can help identify the specific dermatophyte responsible for the infection[5].

Treatment

The management of tinea manuum typically involves antifungal therapy, which can be administered topically or systemically, depending on the severity and extent of the infection:

• Topical Antifungals: Commonly used agents include clotrimazole, miconazole, and terbinafine, which are applied directly to the affected area.
• Oral Antifungals: In cases of extensive infection or when topical treatment fails, oral medications such as terbinafine or itraconazole may be prescribed[6][7].

Prevention

Preventive measures are crucial to avoid recurrence and transmission of tinea manuum. These include:

• Good Hygiene Practices: Regular hand washing and keeping the hands dry can help reduce the risk of infection.
• Avoiding Shared Personal Items: Individuals should refrain from sharing towels, clothing, or sports equipment that may harbor fungal spores.
• Wearing Protective Gloves: In occupational settings where exposure to fungi is possible, wearing gloves can provide a barrier against infection[8].

Conclusion

Tinea manuum is a common dermatophyte infection of the hands that can lead to discomfort and cosmetic concerns. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are essential to manage symptoms effectively and prevent complications. By adhering to preventive measures, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of developing this condition. If symptoms persist or worsen, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation and management.

Tinea manuum, classified under ICD-10 code B35.2, is a dermatophyte infection that primarily affects the hands. This condition is part of a broader category of fungal infections known as dermatophytosis, which can also involve other areas of the body, such as the feet (tinea pedis) and groin (tinea cruris) [1][3]. Understanding the clinical presentation, signs, symptoms, and patient characteristics associated with tinea manuum is essential for effective diagnosis and management.

Clinical Presentation

Tinea manuum typically presents as a localized infection on one or both hands. The infection is often characterized by the following features:

• Erythema: Affected areas may appear red and inflamed.
• Scaling: The skin may exhibit fine scaling, which can be more pronounced in chronic cases.
• Vesicles or pustules: In some instances, small blisters or pustules may develop, particularly in acute infections.
• Crusting: The lesions may become crusted, especially if secondary bacterial infection occurs.
• Itching: Patients often report pruritus (itchiness) in the affected areas, which can lead to scratching and further skin damage.

Signs and Symptoms

The signs and symptoms of tinea manuum can vary based on the severity and duration of the infection:

• Localized lesions: Typically, lesions are well-defined and may be annular (ring-shaped) with a raised border.
• Dryness and fissuring: The skin may become dry and fissured, particularly in chronic cases.
• Nail involvement: In some cases, tinea manuum can be associated with onychomycosis (fungal nail infection), leading to changes in nail appearance, such as discoloration or thickening.
• Asymptomatic cases: Some individuals may have mild infections that are asymptomatic, making diagnosis challenging.

Patient Characteristics

Certain patient characteristics and risk factors can predispose individuals to develop tinea manuum:

• Age: Tinea manuum can occur in individuals of any age, but it is more common in adults.
• Occupational exposure: People who work in wet environments or have frequent hand exposure to moisture (e.g., healthcare workers, food handlers) are at higher risk.
• Immunocompromised status: Individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those with diabetes or HIV, are more susceptible to fungal infections, including tinea manuum [7].
• Personal or family history of fungal infections: A history of dermatophyte infections in the individual or their family can increase the likelihood of developing tinea manuum.
• Poor hygiene: Inadequate hand hygiene can facilitate the spread of dermatophytes, leading to infection.

Conclusion

Tinea manuum is a common dermatophyte infection characterized by specific clinical signs and symptoms, including erythema, scaling, and itching. Understanding the patient characteristics and risk factors associated with this condition is crucial for healthcare providers to implement effective prevention and treatment strategies. Early diagnosis and appropriate antifungal therapy can help manage the infection and prevent complications, such as secondary bacterial infections or chronic skin changes. If you suspect tinea manuum, consulting a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan is advisable.

Tinea manuum, classified under ICD-10 code B35.2, refers to a fungal infection affecting the skin of the hands. This condition is part of a broader category of dermatophyte infections, which are caused by fungi that thrive on keratin found in skin, hair, and nails. Below are alternative names and related terms associated with Tinea manuum.

Alternative Names for Tinea Manuum

1. Hand Fungus: A common layman's term that describes the fungal infection affecting the hands.
2. Tinea of the Hand: This term emphasizes the location of the infection, distinguishing it from other types of tinea infections.
3. Dermatophytosis of the Hand: A more technical term that refers to the infection caused by dermatophytes, the fungi responsible for tinea infections.
4. Fungal Infection of the Hand: A general term that can encompass various types of fungal infections, including Tinea manuum.

Related Terms

1. Tinea: A general term for fungal infections of the skin, which can affect various body parts, including the feet (Tinea pedis), body (Tinea corporis), and scalp (Tinea capitis).
2. Dermatophytes: The group of fungi that cause tinea infections, including Trichophyton, Microsporum, and Epidermophyton species.
3. Tinea Pedis: Also known as athlete's foot, this is a related condition that affects the feet and can sometimes spread to the hands.
4. Tinea Corporis: Refers to tinea infections on the body, which can be confused with Tinea manuum if the infection spreads.
5. Fungal Dermatitis: A broader term that includes various fungal skin infections, including Tinea manuum.

Conclusion

Understanding the alternative names and related terms for Tinea manuum can aid in better communication regarding the condition, especially in clinical settings. This knowledge is essential for healthcare professionals when diagnosing and treating fungal infections of the skin. If you have further questions or need more specific information, feel free to ask!

Tinea manuum, classified under ICD-10 code B35.2, refers to a fungal infection affecting the skin of the hands. The diagnosis of tinea manuum typically involves a combination of clinical evaluation, patient history, and laboratory tests. Below are the key criteria used for diagnosing this condition:

Clinical Presentation

1. Symptoms: Patients often present with symptoms such as itching, redness, scaling, and sometimes blistering on the hands. The affected areas may also exhibit a ring-like appearance, which is characteristic of dermatophyte infections[1].

2. Distribution: Tinea manuum usually affects one hand, but it can also be bilateral. The lesions may be localized to the palms, fingers, or the back of the hand[2].

3. Chronicity: The condition can be chronic, with recurrent episodes, especially in individuals who are frequently exposed to moisture or irritants[3].

Patient History

1. Exposure History: A thorough history should include any known exposure to infected individuals, pets, or environments (such as communal showers or swimming pools) that may harbor dermatophytes[4].

2. Previous Infections: A history of previous fungal infections, particularly tinea pedis (athlete's foot), can be relevant, as these infections can spread to the hands[5].

Laboratory Tests

1. KOH Preparation: A potassium hydroxide (KOH) preparation of skin scrapings from the affected area can be performed. This test helps to identify fungal elements under a microscope, confirming the presence of dermatophytes[6].

2. Fungal Culture: In some cases, a fungal culture may be necessary to identify the specific organism responsible for the infection. This is particularly useful if the KOH preparation is inconclusive or if the infection is recurrent[7].

3. Dermatopathology: In rare cases, a biopsy may be performed to rule out other skin conditions that may mimic tinea manuum, such as eczema or psoriasis[8].

Differential Diagnosis

It is essential to differentiate tinea manuum from other skin conditions that can present similarly, including:

• Eczema: Often presents with similar symptoms but typically has a different distribution and may not respond to antifungal treatment.
• Psoriasis: Characterized by silvery scales and may involve the nails, which is not typical for tinea manuum[9].

Conclusion

The diagnosis of tinea manuum (ICD-10 code B35.2) relies on a combination of clinical evaluation, patient history, and laboratory tests. Accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment, which typically involves topical or systemic antifungal medications. If you suspect you have tinea manuum, consulting a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation is recommended.

Tinea manuum, classified under ICD-10 code B35.2, refers to a fungal infection affecting the skin of the hands, typically caused by dermatophytes. This condition is part of a broader category of superficial fungal infections, which can lead to discomfort and secondary infections if not treated properly. Here, we will explore the standard treatment approaches for tinea manuum, including topical and systemic therapies, as well as preventive measures.

Overview of Tinea Manuum

Tinea manuum is characterized by erythematous, scaly patches on the palms and between the fingers. It can be associated with itching and may sometimes be mistaken for other skin conditions, such as eczema or psoriasis. The infection is often linked to tinea pedis (athlete's foot) and can be transmitted through direct contact with infected surfaces or individuals[1][2].

Standard Treatment Approaches

1. Topical Antifungal Agents

The first line of treatment for tinea manuum typically involves topical antifungal medications. These are applied directly to the affected areas and are effective in most cases. Commonly used topical agents include:

• Clotrimazole: An imidazole antifungal that disrupts the fungal cell membrane.
• Miconazole: Another imidazole that is effective against dermatophytes.
• Terbinafine: An allylamine antifungal that inhibits fungal squalene epoxidase, leading to cell death.
• Ketoconazole: A broad-spectrum antifungal that can be used in cases resistant to other treatments[3][4].

These medications are usually applied twice daily for a duration of 2 to 4 weeks, depending on the severity of the infection and the response to treatment.

2. Systemic Antifungal Therapy

In cases where topical treatments are ineffective, or if the infection is extensive, systemic antifungal therapy may be necessary. Oral antifungals include:

• Terbinafine: Often preferred for its efficacy and shorter treatment duration (typically 4 to 6 weeks).
• Itraconazole: Another option that may be used, especially in cases of recurrent infections.
• Fluconazole: Sometimes used, particularly in patients with specific contraindications to other antifungals[5][6].

Systemic treatment is generally reserved for more severe cases or when the infection does not respond to topical therapy.

3. Adjunctive Measures

In addition to antifungal treatments, several adjunctive measures can help manage tinea manuum:

• Hygiene Practices: Keeping the hands clean and dry is crucial, as moisture can exacerbate fungal growth. Regular washing and thorough drying, especially between the fingers, are recommended.
• Avoiding Irritants: Patients should avoid exposure to harsh soaps and chemicals that can irritate the skin.
• Protective Gloves: Wearing gloves when handling water or chemicals can help prevent further irritation and reinfection[7].

4. Follow-Up and Monitoring

Regular follow-up is essential to ensure the effectiveness of the treatment and to monitor for any potential side effects, especially when systemic antifungals are used. If symptoms persist or worsen, further evaluation may be necessary to rule out other conditions or to consider alternative treatments[8].

Conclusion

Tinea manuum, while often manageable with appropriate treatment, requires a comprehensive approach that includes both topical and systemic antifungal therapies, along with good hygiene practices. Early intervention is key to preventing complications and ensuring a swift recovery. If symptoms do not improve with standard treatments, consulting a healthcare professional for further evaluation and management is advisable.