Author's details
- Dr. Khashau Eleburuike
- MBBS (Ilorin) MSc. Global Health Karolinska Institute.
- Resident doctor in family medicine in Northern Sweden.
Reviewer's details
- Dr. Gboyega Olarinoye
- MBBS, FMCP.
- Dermatologist FMC Keffi Nassarawa State. Nigeria
Pinta
Background
Pinta, a skin infection caused by Treponema carateum, primarily affects darker-skinned individuals, presenting as discoloured, hypopigmented or hyperpigmented lesions, often starting as small spots and evolving into larger, more widespread patches. The lesions can cause significant cosmetic concerns, leading to permanent scarring if untreated, and are most commonly found in tropical areas with poor sanitation. Treatment involves the use of antibiotics such as penicillin, which effectively cures the infection and prevents further skin changes or complications.
References
- Marks, Michael & Solomon, Anthony & Mabey, David. (2014). Endemic treponemal diseases. Transactions of the Royal Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene. 108. 10.1093/trstmh/tru128.
- Shukla M, Pereira L, Pillay A. Treponema. InMolecular Typing in Bacterial Infections, Volume I 2022 Feb 21 (pp. 191-213). Cham: Springer International Publishing.
- Mitjà O, Asiedu K. Yaws, bejel, and pinta. International Encyclopedia of Public Health. Elsevier Inc. 2016 Jan 1:476-83.
