March 22, 2023
In recent years, an increasingly prevalent strain of fungus causing tinea (commonly known as ringworm or athlete's foot) with resistance to antifungal agents has been reported worldwide, including in Japan. However, the extent of this resistance among domestic tinea patients remained unclear. To address this crucial knowledge gap, a collaborative research effort led by Professor Rui Kagano of Teikyo University's Medical Mycology Research Center, in conjunction with experts from the Tokyo Medical University's Dermatology Department and Dermatology Clinics, conducted the first-ever nationwide investigation into the prevalence of antifungal-resistant tinea fungi.
The study unveiled a definitive presence of antifungal-resistant tinea, with an observable increase in strains displaying resistance. Notably, the research also uncovered the effectiveness of alternative antifungal agents against all terbinafine-resistant strains. Encouraged by these findings, the Medical Mycology Research Center will continue to conduct surveys on the prevalence of antifungal-resistant strains, contributing to advancements in medical practice and facilitating the integration of research outcomes into society.
The results of this groundbreaking research were published on March 20, 2023, in the esteemed international academic journal, "Journal of Dermatology."
DOI: 10.1111/1346-8138.16780
Click here for details of the press release (revised on March 23, 2023)