The atopic-chronic-dermatophytosis syndrome

This articlc reviews the clinical and laboratory aspects of the relationship between atopy and dermatophytosis. This newly appreciated relationship; chronic, stabilized dermatophytosis and bronchial asthma and/or allergic rhinitis, constitutes a clinical syndrome of importance and interest. The relevant host defense; correlate, cell mediated immunity, is subject to the modulating effects of the mediators of Immunoglobulin-E mediated hypersensitivity in the atopic. Evidence suggests that lgE, the mast cell and histamine act locally within the loose connective tissue of the skin to inhibit T effector cell function and inflammation. The final common pathway for histamine as an immune modulator is unknown but may involve binding to H-2 receptors on the plasma membrane of lymphocytes or endothelial cells. The consequent reduction in intensity of inflammation within the lesion permils establishment of a chronic stabilized dermatophyte infection. Recognition of the atopic-chronic-dermatophytosis syndrome draws attention to the underlying immune mechanism which may have broader implications in biology.