Tinea manuum is a relatively rare dermatophyte infection that affects one or both hands. Although it is less commonly encountered than tinea pedis, which typically impacts the feet, tinea manuum can be just as troublesome for those affected.

Tinea manuum is caused by a fungal infection that usually occurs due to contact with another infected body part, such as the feet (tinea pedis) or the groin (tinea cruris). Additionally, the infection can result from direct contact with an individual who has tinea, through casual contact or shared personal items. Exposure to infected animals or soil can also lead to tinea manuum, as certain fungi are commonly found in these environments. These fungi can be transmitted through interaction with contaminated objects, such as towels, gardening tools, or other personal effects.

Certain individuals are more susceptible to developing tinea manuum, particularly those who engage in manual labor, suffer from excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis), or have preexisting hand dermatitis.

The fungi responsible for tinea manuum can be classified into two main categories: zoophilic and geophilic dermatophytes, which are typically transmitted from animals or soil, and anthropophilic dermatophytes, which are of human origin. Zoophilic and geophilic dermatophytes include species such as Trichophyton erinacei from hedgehogs, T. verrucosum from cattle, Microsporum canis from cats or dogs, and Nannizzia gypsea from soil. Anthropophilic dermatophytes, on the other hand, include species like T. rubrum, T. interdigitale, and Epidermophyton floccosum.

The symptoms of tinea manuum can vary depending on the type of fungus involved. In some cases, individuals may experience an acute inflammatory rash that resembles tinea corporis. This form of the infection is characterized by a raised border with central clearing, commonly known as ringworm, and is more often associated with zoophilic or geophilic fungi. However, more commonly, tinea manuum presents as a slowly spreading area of dryness, peeling, and mild itching on the palm of one hand. This condition, known as hyperkeratotic tinea, may lead to increased skin markings and often occurs alongside a similar infection in both feet, a phenomenon known as “one hand, two-foot syndrome,” typically caused by anthropophilic fungi.

In some instances, the infection may also cause a blistering rash on the edges of the fingers or palm. These blisters often appear in clusters, contain a sticky clear fluid, and may have a peeling edge, which is frequently accompanied by itching and burning sensations.

Differentiating tinea manuum from other skin conditions such as hand dermatitis is crucial for effective treatment. There are several key clinical indicators that can help distinguish tinea manuum from other conditions. For example, tinea manuum often affects only one hand, and if both hands are involved, the condition is usually asymmetrical. Additionally, while increased skin markings can be observed in both dermatitis and chronic tinea manuum, in the latter, the markings appear white due to surface scaling. The infection may also affect both the palm and the back of the hand, and it may be accompanied by a fungal nail infection known as tinea unguium, although other skin conditions can also affect the nails.

If left untreated, tinea manuum can lead to complications such as the spread of the infection to other parts of the body, including the nails, feet, or other skin sites. Additionally, the infection can be transmitted to others, particularly in communal or household settings.

Tinea manuum is primarily diagnosed through clinical examination, and the diagnosis is confirmed by microscopy and culture of skin scrapings to detect the presence of dermatophytes. For mild cases, topical antifungal agents are usually effective. However, if the infection is resistant to topical treatments, oral antifungal medications such as terbinafine or itraconazole may be prescribed.

Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for tinea manuum is essential for effectively managing this uncommon but impactful condition. Early recognition and appropriate treatment can prevent complications and the spread of the infection, helping to ensure healthy and clear skin.