Fungal Skin Infection Treatment in Miami: Expert Diagnosis and Care

Dealing with ringworm, athlete's foot, or other fungal skin infections? Our board-certified dermatologists provide accurate diagnosis and effective treatment to clear your infection and prevent recurrence.

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Understanding Fungal Skin Infections

Fungal skin infections are extremely common, affecting millions of people in warm, humid climates like Miami. These infections are caused by dermatophytes—fungi that thrive on keratin in the skin, hair, and nails—as well as yeasts like Candida and Malassezia.

At Paradise Medical Center, our dermatologists accurately diagnose and effectively treat all types of fungal skin infections. Proper diagnosis is essential because fungal infections can mimic other conditions like eczema, psoriasis, or bacterial infections, and using the wrong treatment can make them worse.

Miami's warm, humid climate creates ideal conditions for fungal growth, making residents particularly susceptible to these infections. Active individuals, those who frequent gyms and pools, and people with diabetes or compromised immunity are at higher risk.

With proper diagnosis and treatment, most fungal infections can be cleared effectively. Our goal is not only to treat your current infection but to help you understand prevention strategies to reduce the risk of recurrence.

Fungal skin infection diagnosis at Paradise Medical Center Miami

Learn About Fungal Infection Treatment

🎬 Video Coming Soon: Dr. Teresa Moreno discusses diagnosis and treatment of fungal skin infections

Types of Fungal Infections We Treat

Our dermatologists diagnose and treat all types of fungal skin infections, each requiring specific treatment approaches.

Ringworm (Tinea Corporis)

Causes circular, red, scaly patches with clearing centers. Despite the name, it's caused by fungus, not worms. Affects the body, face, or scalp.

Athlete's Foot (Tinea Pedis)

Affects the feet, especially between toes, causing itching, scaling, and cracking. Common in athletes and those who wear closed shoes.

Nail Fungus (Onychomycosis)

Causes thickened, discolored, brittle nails. Requires prolonged treatment, often oral medication for complete clearing.

Tinea Versicolor

Causes light or dark patches on the trunk, especially in young adults. Caused by Malassezia yeast and common in humid climates like Miami.

Dermatologist treating fungal infection at Paradise Medical Center

Accurate Diagnosis is Essential

Many skin conditions can look like fungal infections, and using antifungal medications on non-fungal conditions is ineffective and can delay proper treatment. We use several methods to ensure accurate diagnosis.

Clinical Examination

Our experienced dermatologists can often diagnose fungal infections based on their characteristic appearance and distribution. However, laboratory confirmation is sometimes needed.

KOH Preparation

A simple, quick test where skin scrapings are examined under a microscope after treatment with potassium hydroxide, revealing fungal elements if present.

Ruling Out Other Conditions

Eczema, psoriasis, and contact dermatitis can mimic fungal infections. We ensure accurate diagnosis before starting treatment.

Skin Biopsy When Needed

In unclear cases, a skin biopsy can definitively distinguish fungal infection from other conditions.

Treatment Options

We offer comprehensive treatment for all types of fungal infections, from topical creams to oral medications for stubborn cases.

Topical Antifungal Medications

For most skin fungal infections, prescription-strength topical antifungals are highly effective. We prescribe medications like ketoconazole, clotrimazole, terbinafine, or ciclopirox based on the specific fungus and location. Treatment typically continues for 2-4 weeks, even after symptoms clear.

Oral Antifungal Medications

For extensive infections, scalp ringworm, nail fungus, or infections that don't respond to topical treatment, oral antifungals like terbinafine or itraconazole may be necessary. These medications are safe and effective when properly monitored.

Scalp and Hair Infections

Scalp ringworm (tinea capitis) is particularly common in children and requires oral antifungal treatment. We also treat fungal conditions affecting the scalp in adults.

Yeast-Related Conditions

Malassezia yeast causes both tinea versicolor and seborrheic dermatitis. We treat both conditions with targeted antifungal therapies.

Our Other Advanced Dermatology Services

Nail Fungus Treatment

Specialized care for stubborn toenail and fingernail fungal infections.

Eczema Treatment

Comprehensive care for inflammatory skin conditions.

Psoriasis Treatment

Advanced care for psoriasis that can mimic fungal infections.

Seborrheic Dermatitis

Treatment for yeast-related scalp and facial conditions.

Skin Cancer Screening

Annual skin exams for early detection of skin cancer.

Acne Treatment

Comprehensive acne management for clear skin.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you get fungal skin infections?

Fungal infections spread through direct contact with infected skin, animals (especially cats and dogs with ringworm), or contaminated surfaces like locker room floors, gym equipment, and shared towels. Warm, moist environments and compromised immunity increase your risk.

How long does it take to treat a fungal infection?

Treatment duration varies by type and location. Skin infections typically clear in 2-4 weeks with consistent topical treatment. Nail fungus requires 3-6 months of oral medication due to slow nail growth. Continuing treatment as prescribed, even after symptoms improve, prevents recurrence.

Why does my fungal infection keep coming back?

Recurrence often happens when treatment is stopped too early, when the source of infection (like an infected pet or contaminated shoes) isn't addressed, or due to continued exposure to contaminated environments. We develop comprehensive prevention strategies tailored to your situation.

Are fungal infections contagious?

Yes, most fungal skin infections are contagious and can spread through direct contact or shared items like towels, clothing, and sports equipment. Treatment reduces contagion quickly, and good hygiene practices help prevent spreading the infection to others or to other parts of your own body.

Visit Our Miami Dermatology Clinic

Paradise Medical Center Dermatology Clinic

8364 SW 8th St

Miami, FL 33144

Phone: (786) 738-9515

Ready to Clear Your Fungal Infection?

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