Inflammatory types of tinea corporis usually respond readily to specific topical antifungal medications. Extensive and resistant lesions occur in patients infected with Trichophyton rubrum and in persons with debilitating systemic diseases. Tinea pedis is common. Trichophyton mentagrophytes infections typically begin in the 3rd and 4th interdigital spaces and later involve the plantar surface of the arch. Acute flare-ups, with many vesicles and bullae, are common during warm weather.
Infected toenails become thickened and distorted.
Itching, pain, inflammation, or vesiculation may be slight or severe. Tinea pedis may be complicated by secondary bacterial infection, cellulitis, or lymphangitis, which may recur. Itraconazole and terbinafine are the most effective treatments for mycologically proven tinea pedis but may have little immediate effect on an acute inflammatory infection, which is a cell-mediated immune reaction. Either drug may be used to treat chronic infections and prevent acute exacerbations. Interdigital infections can be successfully treated with topical agents.