A client is exhibiting manifestations of superficial dermatophytosis of the skin with skin scaling and nail disintegration. Based on these findings, the nurse can anticipate that the client will be prescribed: Select all that apply

Question

A) An antifungal like ketoconazole
B) An antibiotic like tetracycline
C) Topical corticosteroid
D) An antihistamine like Benadryl

Answer 1

Ans: A, C
Feedback:
The fungi that cause superficial mycoses are called dermatophytes and require keratin for growth. Therefore, these fungi do not infect deeper body tissues or mucosal surfaces. The dermatophytes emit an enzyme that enables them to digest keratin, which results in superficial skin scaling, nail disintegration, or hair breakage, depending on the location of the infection. The principal agents are the azoles (ketoconazole, miconazole, clotrimazole, etc.) and the allylamines (naftifine and terbinafine). Both act by inhibiting the synthesis of ergosterol, which is an essential part of fungal cell membranes. Topical corticosteroids may be used in conjunction with topical antifungal agents to relieve itching and erythema secondary to inflammation. Antibiotics are not effective for fungal infections, and antihistamines are usually reserved for itching, which is not characteristic of this disease.