The first reported vitrine of a sexually transmitted fungous infection in the United States wasTrichophyton mentagrophytes genotype VII ( TMVII ) in 2024.Other fungal infection can transmit through intimate activity , but doctors do not judge them as sexually transmitted .
Trichophyton mentagrophytes ( T. mentagrophytes ) is a character of fungus that cause ringworm , a tegument infection that appears as an itchy ring shape . In 2024 , the California Department of Public Health ( CDPH ) issue a warning after some male person submit with itchy , painful tegument lesion on their genitalia .
A note about sex and gender
sexual activity and gender exist on spectrums . This article will use the terms “ male , ” “ female , ” or both to come to to sexual practice assigned at birth . read more .
What is TMVII?
T. mentagrophytes is a fungus mintage that can have tinea , a discolored , scaly , and antsy ring - shaped skin rash . TMVIIis a subtypeof this fungus . The first report of TVMII as a sexually transmitted fungal infection in the United States occurred in 2024 .
Other fungal transmission , such as tinea cruris or “ jock itch , ” can lead in ringworm in the groin area , but it is not a sexually carry fungal contagion .
incidence of TMVII had occurred in other areas before 2024 , such as in France and Southeast Asia . However , the first reported case in the United Statesinvolvedmales in New York City who exhibit with roundworm on the nates , face , and genitals .
A2025 showcase studyreported that a 36 - yr - one-time male presented with small pus - fill up pocket in the anal retentive area , with similar symptom appearing on their partner .
What are the symptoms of TMVII?
symptom of TMVIIinclude :
Many peoplemay mistakeTMVII witheczemaorpsoriasis , both inflammatory peel conditions characterized by flaky , discolored skin .
TMVII commonly appears on the tree trunk of the body , face , privates , groin , or anal area .
When to contact a doctor
If a person develops an antsy , scaly , or painful rash or lesions anywhere on the skin , it is important to speak with a physician . They can determine the causal agency , mitigate spreading further on themselves and to others , and begin treatment .
TMVII transmission
TVMIIoccursdue to the transmittal of dermatophytes , fungal organisms that taint peel , hairsbreadth , and nails .
A personcan contractTMVII through hide - to - peel contact or close human contact with a person who has TMVII .
What are the risk factors for TMVII?
Anyone who has been in contact with someone with TMVII can hazard photograph to the transmission . However , the leading risk divisor is skin - to - skin impinging , especially during sexual contact .
The 2024 Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report ( MMWR ) from theCenters for Disease Control and Prevention ( CDC)noted that infections diagnose from April to July 2024 in New York City were among males who had recent intimate contact with other males .
What is the treatment for TMVII?
Antifungalsare the first - personal credit line treatment for fungal infections such as TMVII . This may let in oral antifungal medicament . However , this is an come out illness , and turgid studies on the best treatment are unavailable .
The same2024 CDC reportindicates the role of antifungal treatments , such as unwritten terbinafine , topical clotrimazole , and luliconazole .
A2025 case studyinvolving a male with TMVII infection also reported gradual improvement with the intervention of oralitraconazole , topical Master of Education , and antifungal medication .
Topical antimycotic and steroid ointment may not work on TMVII and may worsen spread .
What is the outlook for TMVII?
The only currently know sexually air fungal contagion is TMVII , which is rare . TheCDClabels it an emerge infection , but few cases have occurred in the United States and worldwide , so it is not something to worry aboutcurrently .
Various oral antifungal medicationscanhelp treatthe lesions resulting from TMVII .
Can you prevent TMVII?
The well way to prevent TMVII is to avoid penny-pinching and personal contact with someone with the infection . Other general ways to keep fungal infection include :
Summary
T. mentagrophytes genotype VII ( TMVII)is an come forth sexually convey subtype of fungous infection . It can cause symptoms such as swollen , painful plaques on area of the consistency .
Treatment unremarkably involve oral fungicidal medication , and the best way of life to forestall it is by avoiding intimate contact with the person who has the contagion .
