Tinea Incognito on the Face of a 9-Year-Old Girl with History of Steroid Use

Tinea incognito is a fungal infection with bizarre presentation due to the topical use of steroids or calcineurin inhibitors. Herein, we present a case of tinea incognito infection.

A 9-year-old girl complaining of pruritic non-scaly erythematous papulopustular lesions and a 3-month history of use of clobetasol propionate 0.05% referred to our dermatology clinic. In the examination, papules, erythematous plaques, and pustules were found diffusely on her face, neck, arm, and dorsum of the hand. The smear and culture of the lesions confirmed the diagnosis of tinea incognito. The patient was treated completely with fluconazole capsules, ketoconazole shampoo, and clotrimazole cream.

Due to widespread and improper use of steroids, the incidence of tinea incognito infection has increased. Oral antifungals can be used safely and effectively in treatment of these patients.