Revisiting ringworm: an update on the epidemiology, taxonomy, and diagnosis of dermatophytes

Dermatophytes are fungi that invade keratin-containing tissues, causing superficial infections in hair, skin, and nails. Dermatophytosis is the most common fungal infection worldwide. The epidemiology of dermatophytes has undergone significant changes in recent decades, as have the tools available to diagnose and identify these pathogens. Here, we review the current epidemiology of dermatophytes, including the emergence of novel lineages, describe recent changes in taxonomy with the use of molecular approaches, and discuss the status of available diagnostic tools for dermatophytosis, with a focus on newer technologies.