Presumed Trichophyton indotineae Infection in Children: A Call for Heightened Clinical Awareness.

Abstract

Trichophyton indotineae is a fungus that is often antifungal-resistant and presents with exuberant infection. It has been increasingly reported across the world, posing significant diagnostic challenges. We describe a case of a toddler with a history of travel to Bangladesh, presenting with persistent annular scaling plaques of dermatophytosis that were unresponsive to standard antifungal treatments. Misidentification of the Trichophyton species on fungal culture delayed appropriate treatment, with resolution of the rash with a course of itraconazole. This case underscores the need for heightened clinical suspicion and the value of empiric therapy in managing pediatric T. indotineae infection.