Fungal Infections
Fungal skin infections are caused by various types of fungi and are extremely common, especially in hot and humid climates. They include ringworm (tinea), candidiasis, and pityriasis versicolor.
Signs and symptoms
Fungal Infections commonly presents with the following signs. Not every patient shows all of them — an in-person examination by a dermatologist is what confirms the diagnosis.
Flaking Skin
Visible shedding of small, dry skin flakes from the surface. May be localised or widespread, and can indicate fungal infection, eczema, or psoriasis.
Affected area: skin (any area)
Itching (Pruritus)
Persistent urge to scratch the skin, which may be localised to a specific area or generalised across the body. Itching can range from mild to severe and may worsen at night.
Affected area: skin (any area)
Redness (Erythema)
Visible redness of the skin caused by increased blood flow to the area, often associated with inflammation, irritation, or infection.
Affected area: skin (any area)
Ring-Shaped Rash
Circular or ring-shaped red patches with a raised, scaly border and clearer centre — the characteristic appearance of dermatophyte (fungal) infections.
Affected area: body, groin, feet, nails
Causes
Fungi thrive in warm, moist environments. Tight clothing, excessive sweating, weakened immunity, and shared personal items increase risk.
Treatment approach
Accurate diagnosis is the first step — many conditions mimic fungal infections. We use targeted antifungal medications (topical and oral), along with hygiene guidance and prevention strategies to stop recurrence. Persistent or recurrent cases are investigated for underlying causes.
Common questions
Why does my fungal infection keep coming back?
Recurrent fungal infection is one of the most common problems we see, and the cause is rarely that the medicine did not work. It is usually that treatment stopped as soon as the itching settled, while the fungus was still present; that a steroid-containing combination cream bought over the counter suppressed the redness and let the infection spread; or that clothing, towels and household contacts were not treated at the same time. In the humid months this is worse. Fungal infection needs treatment for the full prescribed duration, not until it feels better.