From the Research
Tinea nigra is a superficial fungal infection of the skin caused by the organism Hortaea werneckii, and the most effective treatment involves topical antifungal medications such as terbinafine applied twice daily for 2-4 weeks, as supported by a case report in 1999 1.
Key Points to Consider
- Tinea nigra typically appears as a painless, non-itchy brown to black patch on the palms or soles, often mistaken for a melanoma.
- The fungus thrives in warm, humid environments, so keeping affected areas dry and avoiding excessive sweating can help prevent recurrence.
- Treatment with topical terbinafine has been shown to be effective in some cases, with a study in 1999 reporting successful treatment of two cases with topical terbinafine 1.
- Other treatment options, such as miconazole, clotrimazole, or oral itraconazole, may also be effective, but the evidence is limited.
- Keratolytic agents like salicylic acid or urea can also be used to help remove the infected skin layers.
Important Considerations
- Tinea nigra is not contagious and typically resolves completely with proper treatment.
- The condition occurs when the lipophilic yeast-like fungus colonizes the stratum corneum (outermost layer of skin), producing melanin-like pigments that create the characteristic dark patches.
- While there is limited evidence on the treatment of tinea nigra, the available data suggest that topical antifungal medications are the most effective treatment option.
- A study in 2023 found that oral terbinafine 250 mg daily yielded a poor cure rate in tinea cruris and corporis after 4 weeks of treatment, and an increased dose of 500 mg did not have any additional benefit 2, but this study did not specifically address tinea nigra.
- Another study in 2006 discussed the use of topical antifungal agents, including terbinafine, for the treatment of various fungal infections, but did not provide specific guidance on tinea nigra 3.