Description: | Under a magnification of 450X, this lactophenol cotton blue mount prepared photomicrograph revealed ultrastructural features exhibited at the site of a fungal infection by a dermatophyte of the specie, Microsporum. These fungal spores were found on the surface of the hair shaft, also known as an ectothrix infection. Dermatophyte infections can affect the skin on almost any area of the body, such as the scalp, legs, arms, feet groin, and nails. These infections are usually itchy. Redness, scaling, cracking of the skin, or a ring-shaped rash may occur. If the infection involves the scalp or beard, hair may fall out. Infected nails become discolored, thick, and may possibly crumble. More serious infections may lead to an abscess or cellulitis. |