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Author's details

Reviewer's details

Dermatophytids or “ID” Eruptions

Background

Dermatophytid eruptions in darker-skinned individuals are hypersensitivity reactions to a fungal infection, presenting as itchy, red, or inflamed patches that may be darker or lighter than surrounding skin. These eruptions typically occur in areas distant from the original fungal infection site, often on the hands, feet, or legs, and can cause further discomfort and irritation. Treatment involves addressing the underlying dermatophyte infection with antifungal medications, such as oral terbinafine or topical clotrimazole, while managing the hypersensitivity reaction with corticosteroids to reduce inflammation.

Lesion image

Dermatophytid Reaction - Skin Disorders - MSD Manual Consumer Version (msdmanuals.com) Image courtesy of CDC/Dr. Lucille K. Georg via the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Public Health Image Library. 

References
  • Image courtesy of CDC/Dr. Lucille K. Georg via the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Public Health Image Library. Dermatophytid Reaction
    (A. K. Gupta, R. C. Summerbell, Tinea capitis, Medical Mycology, Volume 38, Issue 4, 2000, Pages 255–287, https://doi.org/10.1080/mmy.38.4.255.287
  • Hay, R.J. Tinea Capitis: Current Status. Mycopathologia 182, 87–93 (2017). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11046-016-0058-8
  • Identity Reaction or Id Reaction)
    By Denise M. Aaron , MD, Dartmouth Geisel School of Medicine . 2023; Available at: https://www.msdmanuals.com/home/skin-disorders/fungal-skin-infections/dermatophytid-reaction. Accessed -02-14, 2024.
  • Ilkit, M., Durdu, M., & Karakaş, M. (2012). Cutaneous id reactions: A comprehensive review of clinical manifestations, epidemiology, etiology, and management. Critical Reviews in Microbiology38(3), 191–202. https://doi.org/10.3109/1040841X.2011.645520
  • Atzori LA, Pau M, Aste M. Erythema multiforme ID reaction in atypical dermatophytosis: a case report. Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology. 2003 Nov;17(6):699-701.