Abstract
Ring-worm infection is very common in tropical countries but is also quite prevalent in temperate climates. The genus trichophyton seems to be widespread over the face of the earth. Sabouraud lists some 30 species. These are differentiated chiefly by cultural characteristics, morphology, pigment formation, character of the lesions produced and the host affected. Ring-worm infection is very persistent and frequently responds only to the most vigorous treatment. One of us (McK.) has observed cases in the Philippines which have persisted for fifteen to twenty years, the lesions appearing and disappearing periodically during this time. Patients have stated that sojourns in colder climates are frequently accompanied by disappearance of the lesions which promptly return when they again take up residence in the tropics.
It has been thought that these fungi are very resistant to ultraviolet light since they produce lesions on parts of the body normally exposed to sunlight (particularly in animals) as well as other parts (in man) which are protected by clothing. However, both the X-ray and the ultraviolet rays have been used empirically for the treatment of some of these conditions in man.
We have recently tested the effect of ultraviolet light upon the Trichophyton asteroides, a variety which affects chiefly horses and cattle and gives rise to inflammatory lesions with folliculitis and formation of kerion, the clinical picture of which has usually been designated Herpes tonsurans. The fungus was grown on Sabouraud and after a growth measuring 8 cm. was obtained it was lifted off and ground up in a sterile mortar with sterile sand and suspended in physiological saline. To quartz tubes containing 2 cc. of saline a small quantity (0.1 cc.) of the fungus suspension was added.
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