Which of the following fungus is responsible for Athlete's foot?

Appeared in: UPUMS Nsg.Officer-2024

Explanation

Tinea pedis, or Athlete's foot, is a dermatophyte infection of the feet.
Trichophyton rubrum is the most prevalent dermatophyte worldwide that causes Tinea pedis.
It is particularly associated with chronic, non-inflammatory 'moccasin-type' infections.
While other fungi can cause the condition, T. rubrum is the primary etiologic agent.

Option A: Although Trichophyton mentagrophytes does cause Athlete's foot, it is a less frequent cause than Trichophyton rubrum.
Option B: Epidermophyton cruris is not a valid or recognized fungal species name. It appears to be a mix-up of the genus 'Epidermophyton' and the condition 'Tinea cruris' (jock itch).
Option C: Epidermophyton floccosum is a recognized cause of Tinea pedis, but it is significantly less common than Trichophyton rubrum.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Identification of the primary causative agent for Tinea pedis (Athlete's foot) as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Identifying the most common causative agent for Athlete's foot is crucial for empirical treatment and public health education.
Nurses educate patients on proper foot hygiene, such as keeping feet dry, wearing breathable footwear, and using antifungal powders to prevent recurrence.
Patient counseling includes advising against sharing towels or footwear and wearing protection in communal showers to limit transmission.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the core of the question: it asks for the fungus that causes Athlete's foot (Tinea pedis).
This is a factual recall question. Access your knowledge about common dermatological infections.
Recognize that 'Athlete's foot' is the common name for Tinea pedis.
Evaluate the options. All are types of dermatophytes except for 'Epidermophyton cruris', which is an incorrect name.
Recall or deduce that while several fungi can cause Tinea pedis, Trichophyton rubrum is the most common causative agent globally.
Select the option that represents the most frequent cause to find the best answer.

Concept Tested & Keywords

Concept Tested: Identification of the primary causative agent for Tinea pedis (Athlete's foot).
Stem keywords: fungus, Athlete's foot
Lead-in keywords: responsible for

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E6 Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics(2024) — Volume 2 p. 1973-1975

E6 Pharmacology Nursing Lilley 11e Part 3 p. 242-244

E6 Medicine Harrison 22e Part 1 p. 430-432

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