Abstract

The enzymatic ability of fungi to decompose keratin has long been interpreted as a key innovation in the evolution of animal dermatology. Dermatophytes are keratinophilic fungi which were originally saprophytic, but have adapted themselves to animal and human parasitism during the course of evolution. Dermatophytes are pathogens, which cause superficial mycosis. The dermatophytes have the capacity to invade keratinized tissue (skin, hair and nails) of humans and other animals to produce an infection. The mycoses caused by fungal infections of the skin and nails is widespread and common amongst all type of mycoses. During last decades, mycotic infections raised to more than 20-25% of the world’s population. The review article contains the input of knowledge of various dermatophytes and the diseases caused by them, their identification at the molecular level and treatment strategies.

Key words: Dermatology, dermatophytes, mycoses, keratin.