What is Fungal skin Infection -Tinea

FUNGAL SKIN INFECTION -TINEA Meaning

Fungi are organisms that make their homes in moist areas of the body where skin surfaces meet: between the toes, in the genital area, and under the breasts. These fungi grow and thrive in dead skin layers Obese and diabetics and those with weak immune system are prone to get fungal infections.

Tinea is the name of a group of contagious skin infection caused by a fungus.. Most common types of tinea include ringworm, athlete's foot and jock itch. These infections are usually not serious, but they can be uncomfortable.^1,2

At times , an allergic response to fungal infections may also occur.

In Ayurveda the term Kustha covers almost all the skin diseases. Kustha is produced invariably by the vitiation of the seven factors including the tridoshas and four Dushyas or the connective tissues; and is further categorized in to Maha kushta & Kshudra kushta. In broad sense, Kustha is the one, which causes vitiation as well as discoloration of the skin. Fungal skin infections can be classified under the aegis of Dadru Kustha -a type of Kustha that is classified under both the categories due to its quick invading nature. As per the definition, the reddish coloured Pidaka (lesion) in the form of Mandala (rounded lesion) with elevated borders and itching is known as Dadru.³