Trichomycosis Axillaris

Trichomycosis axillaris is a bacterial infection that affects the hair shafts of the axillary regions, also known as the underarms. This condition is caused by a type of bacteria called Corynebacterium, which is normally found on the skin, but in the case of trichomycosis axillaries, it becomes overgrown and produces a characteristic yellow or black-green pigmentation on the affected hair.

There are several types of trichomycosis axillaries, including:

1. Trichomycosis axillaries corporis: This is the most common type of trichomycosis axillaries and affects the hair shafts in the underarms and other body regions.
2. Trichomycosis pubis: This type affects the hair in the pubic region, and is also known as trichobacteriosis pubis.
3. Trichomycosis palmellina: This type affects the hair on the palms of the hands, and is less common than the other types.
4. Trichomycosis nodosa: This type affects the hair on the scalp, and is characterized by the formation of nodules on the hair shafts.

Causes

The condition is caused by the buildup of bacteria on hair follicles and the subsequent formation of yellow or black nodules on the hair. While it is not a serious medical condition, trichomycosis axillaris can cause discomfort and embarrassment, and it is important to understand the various causes in order to prevent its occurrence. Here is a list of 20 causes for trichomycosis axillaris, along with detailed explanations.

1. Poor Hygiene: Poor hygiene is one of the most common causes of trichomycosis axillaris. People who do not wash their underarms frequently or thoroughly enough are more likely to develop the condition.
2. Excessive Sweating: Excessive sweating is another major cause of trichomycosis axillaris. People who sweat excessively are more likely to develop bacterial infections on their skin, including in the armpit area.
3. Tight Clothing: Wearing tight clothing can cause sweating and create an environment that is conducive to the growth of bacteria, which can lead to trichomycosis axillaris.
4. Obesity: Obese people are more likely to develop trichomycosis axillaris due to the increased amount of sweat that is produced in the armpit area.
5. Hot and Humid Weather: Hot and humid weather can cause excessive sweating, which can create an environment that is conducive to the growth of bacteria.
6. Diabetes: People with diabetes are more likely to develop bacterial infections, including trichomycosis axillaris.
7. Immunosuppression: People with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS or undergoing chemotherapy, are more susceptible to bacterial infections, including trichomycosis axillaris.
8. Antibiotic Use: Antibiotic use can disrupt the balance of bacteria on the skin, allowing harmful bacteria to overgrow and cause infections such as trichomycosis axillaris.
9. Excessive Use of Antiperspirants: Excessive use of antiperspirants can clog sweat ducts and create an environment that is conducive to the growth of bacteria, which can cause trichomycosis axillaris.
10. Shaving: Shaving the underarms can create tiny cuts in the skin, which can allow bacteria to enter and cause infections such as trichomycosis axillaris.
11. Depilatory Creams: Depilatory creams can also cause tiny cuts in the skin, which can lead to bacterial infections such as trichomycosis axillaris.
12. Sharing Personal Items: Sharing personal items, such as towels or razors, can spread bacteria and increase the risk of developing trichomycosis axillaris.
13. Skin Folds: Trichomycosis axillaris can occur in skin folds, such as those found in overweight individuals, due to the warm and moist environment that is created.
14. Poor Diet: A poor diet can weaken the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to bacterial infections such as trichomycosis axillaris.
15. Smoking: Smoking can weaken the immune system and make individuals more susceptible to bacterial infections, including trichomycosis axillaris.
16. Alcohol Consumption: Excessive alcohol consumption can weaken the immune system and make individuals more susceptible to bacterial infections, including trichomycosis axillaris.
17. Hormonal Changes: Hormonal changes, such as those that occur during puberty, pregnancy, or menopause, can lead to increased sweating and an increased risk of bacterial infections

Symptoms

symptoms of Trichomycosis axillaris in detail.

1. Small nodules: The most common symptom of Trichomycosis axillaris is the formation of small nodules on the hair shafts in the armpits. These nodules are usually white or yellowish in color and can be easily seen.
2. Foul odor: Trichomycosis axillaris can cause a foul odor in the affected area due to the production of volatile organic compounds by the bacteria.
3. Itching: Itching is a common symptom of Trichomycosis axillaris. The itching can be mild or severe, and it can be accompanied by a burning sensation.
4. Discoloration: Trichomycosis axillaris can cause the hair in the affected area to change color. The hair may become darker or lighter than the surrounding hair.
5. Clumping of hair: The nodules formed by Trichomycosis axillaris can cause the hair to clump together, making it difficult to separate.
6. Increased sweat production: Trichomycosis axillaris can cause an increase in sweat production in the affected area.
7. Rash: Trichomycosis axillaris can cause a rash in the armpit area. The rash may be red or pink and may be accompanied by itching and burning.
8. Swelling: Trichomycosis axillaris can cause swelling in the armpit area.
9. Pain: Trichomycosis axillaris can cause pain in the affected area. The pain can be mild or severe and may be accompanied by itching and burning.
10. Discharge: Trichomycosis axillaris can cause a discharge from the affected area. The discharge may be white or yellowish in color and may have a foul odor.
11. Thickening of the hair: Trichomycosis axillaris can cause the hair in the affected area to become thicker than the surrounding hair.
12. Scaliness: Trichomycosis axillaris can cause scaliness in the armpit area. The skin may become dry and flaky.
13. Inflammation: Trichomycosis axillaris can cause inflammation in the armpit area. The skin may become red and swollen.
14. Tenderness: Trichomycosis axillaris can cause tenderness in the armpit area. The affected area may be sensitive to the touch.
15. Excessive sweating: Trichomycosis axillaris can cause excessive sweating in the armpit area.
16. Irritation: Trichomycosis axillaris can cause irritation in the armpit area. The skin may become irritated and itchy.
17. Redness: Trichomycosis axillaris can cause redness in the armpit area.
18. Infection: Trichomycosis axillaris can lead to an infection if left untreated. The infection may spread to other parts of the body.
19. Hair breakage: Trichomycosis axillaris can cause hair breakage in the affected area.
20. Discomfort: Trichomycosis axillaris can cause discomfort in the affected area. The discomfort may be

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of trichomycosis axillaris is typically made through a combination of clinical examination and laboratory tests. In this article, we will discuss 20 common diagnostic methods and tests used to diagnose trichomycosis axillaris.

1. Physical examination: The first step in diagnosing trichomycosis axillaris is a physical examination. The doctor will examine the underarm area for the presence of yellow, black, or red granules around the hair shafts.
2. Microscopic examination: A sample of the granules may be collected for microscopic examination. The granules can be visualized under a microscope, and the presence of bacteria can be confirmed.
3. Gram stain: A gram stain may be performed on a sample of the granules to determine the type of bacteria present.
4. Culture and sensitivity testing: A culture and sensitivity test may be performed to determine the specific type of bacteria present and which antibiotics will be effective in treating the infection.
5. Bacterial identification: DNA sequencing or polymerase chain reaction (PCR) may be used to identify the specific type of bacteria present.
6. Skin biopsy: In rare cases, a skin biopsy may be performed to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions.
7. Dermoscopy: A dermoscope may be used to examine the underarm area and magnify the granules for better visualization.
8. Microbiome analysis: The microbiome of the underarm may be analyzed to identify the bacterial species present and determine the best course of treatment.
9. Swab testing: A swab may be taken from the underarm area to collect samples of the bacteria for laboratory testing.
10. Serological testing: Blood samples may be tested for the presence of antibodies to the bacteria causing the infection.
11. Imaging tests: Imaging tests such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRI may be performed if there is concern that the infection has spread beyond the underarm area.
12. Allergy testing: Allergy testing may be performed to determine if the infection is a result of an allergic reaction to a product, such as a deodorant or antiperspirant.
13. Skin scraping: A sample of the affected skin may be scraped to collect samples of the bacteria for laboratory testing.
14. Blood tests: Blood tests may be performed to check for signs of infection, such as an elevated white blood cell count.
15. Acid-fast staining: Acid-fast staining may be used to identify acid-fast bacteria, such as Mycobacterium tuberculosis, which can cause similar symptoms to trichomycosis axillaris.
16. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR): PCR may be used to amplify and detect DNA from the bacteria causing the infection.
17. Immunofluorescence: Immunofluorescence may be used to detect the presence of bacterial antigens in a sample of the granules.
18. Tissue culture: Tissue culture may be used to grow and isolate bacteria from a sample of the affected skin.
19. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing: Antimicrobial susceptibility testing may be performed to determine which antibiotics will be effective in treating the infection.
20. Fungal culture: A fungal culture may be performed to rule out a fungal infection, which can cause similar symptoms to trichomycosis axillaris.

Treatment

Treatment options for trichomycosis axillaris are numerous and can range from topical agents to systemic antibiotics.

1. Topical Antibacterial Agents: Topical agents are the first-line treatment for trichomycosis axillaris. These agents are applied directly to the affected area and are effective in reducing bacterial colonization of hair shafts. Examples of topical agents used to treat trichomycosis axillaris include mupirocin ointment, clindamycin gel, and benzoyl peroxide gel.
2. Oral Antibiotics: In cases where topical agents are not effective or the infection is severe, oral antibiotics may be prescribed. Antibiotics such as tetracycline, erythromycin, and doxycycline are commonly used to treat trichomycosis axillaris. Oral antibiotics are generally reserved for more severe cases due to their potential side effects.
3. Antifungal Agents: In some cases, trichomycosis axillaris may be complicated by fungal overgrowth. Antifungal agents, such as ketoconazole, can be used to treat these cases.
4. Topical Antiperspirants: Topical antiperspirants can be used to reduce sweating and bacterial colonization of hair shafts. Antiperspirants containing aluminum chloride or aluminum chlorohydrate are effective in reducing sweat production.
5. Botulinum Toxin Injection: Botulinum toxin injection can be used to reduce sweating in the affected area. This treatment is particularly useful for patients who experience excessive sweating and recurrent infections.
6. Laser Hair Removal: Laser hair removal can be used to permanently remove hair in the affected area. This treatment is particularly useful for patients who experience recurrent infections and do not wish to continue shaving or waxing.
7. Electrosurgery: Electrosurgery can be used to remove affected hair shafts. This treatment is effective in reducing bacterial colonization and preventing recurrence.
8. Cryotherapy: Cryotherapy involves the use of liquid nitrogen to freeze affected hair shafts. This treatment is effective in removing hair shafts and reducing bacterial colonization.
9. Topical Retinoids: Topical retinoids can be used to promote shedding of affected hair shafts. This treatment is particularly useful for patients with thick, curly hair.
10. Topical Keratolytic Agents: Topical keratolytic agents, such as salicylic acid and urea, can be used to promote shedding of affected hair shafts. These agents are particularly useful for patients with thick, curly hair.
11. Oral Contraceptives: Oral contraceptives can be used to reduce hormonal fluctuations that can contribute to bacterial overgrowth. This treatment is particularly useful for female patients.
12. Topical Antibacterial Shampoos: Topical antibacterial shampoos, such as chlorhexidine shampoo, can be used to reduce bacterial colonization of hair shafts. These shampoos are particularly useful for patients who experience recurrent infections.
13. Topical Steroids: Topical steroids can be used to reduce inflammation and itching associated with trichomycosis axillaris. These agents are particularly useful for patients with sensitive skin.
14. Benzoyl Peroxide Wash: Benzoyl peroxide wash can be used to reduce bacterial colonization of hair shafts. This treatment is particularly useful for patients with acne-prone skin.
15. Antibacterial soap: The use of antibacterial soap can help to kill the bacteria that cause trichomycosis axillaris. This is particularly effective when used in conjunction with other treatments.
16. Antifungal cream: Antifungal cream can be used to treat trichomycosis axillaris, as the condition is caused by a fungal overgrowth. This is particularly effective when used in conjunction with other treatments.
17. Topical antibiotics: Topical antibiotics can be applied directly to the affected area to kill the bacteria that cause trichomycosis axillaris. This is particularly effective when used in conjunction with other treatments.
18. Salicylic acid: Salicylic acid can be applied to the affected area to help exfoliate the skin and remove dead skin cells, which can help to prevent the growth of bacteria that cause trichomycosis axillaris.
19. Tea tree oil: Tea tree oil can be applied to the affected area to kill the bacteria that cause trichomycosis axillaris. It is a natural antibacterial agent and can be particularly effective when used in conjunction with other treatments.
20. Clindamycin lotion: Clindamycin lotion can be applied to the affected area to kill the bacteria that cause trichomycosis axillaris.
21. Erythromycin: Erythromycin can be taken orally to kill the bacteria that cause trichomycosis axillaris.
22. Tetracycline: Tetracycline can be taken orally to kill the bacteria that cause trichomycosis axillaris.
23. Doxycycline: Doxycycline can be taken orally to kill the bacteria that cause trichomycosis axillaris.
24. Minocycline: Minocycline can be taken orally to kill the bacteria that cause trichomycosis axillaris.
25. Clindamycin cream: Clindamycin cream can be applied to the affected area to kill the bacteria that cause trichomycosis axillaris.
26. Topical retinoids: Topical retinoids can be applied to the affected area to help exfoliate the skin and remove dead skin cells, which can help to prevent the growth of bacteria that cause trichomycosis axillaris.

References