Immune responses in patients with chronic Trichophyton rubrum infections

Thirty-five patients were studied who were infected with Trichophyton species. There was a marked reduction in the incidence of delayed hypersensitivity skin responses in Trichophyton rubrum infections (12%) as compared with those patients who were infected with other dermatophytes (75%). There was no difference in the extent of leukocyte migration in either of the clinical groups infected with Trichophyton rubrum but inhibition was demonstrated in patients infected with other Trichophyton species. Nearly one half of those infected with T. rubrum were atopic as defined by history, present symptoms or a positive immediate wheal and flare reaction to T. rubrum. Reasons for the incidence of atopy and the poor cell-mediated responses are discussed.