Superficial mycotic infections of the skin, hair, or nails are recurring 
presentations in the geriatric primary care setting. The most common infections 
are those caused by dermatophytes. The genus Trichophyton gives rise to most of 
the tinea dermatophytoses, including tinea capitis, tinea pedis, and tinea 
unguium (onychomycosis). Part of the diagnostic challenge lies in distinguishing 
the mycotic lesions from those caused by cutaneous diseases such as psoriasis, 
eczema, dyshidrosis, and contact dermatitis. Because environmental conditions 
play a major role in fungal infection onset, clinical management should include 
patient education about conditions conducive to fungal propagation. Oral agents 
are the primary mode of treatment for fungal infections of the scalp and nails, 
whereas topical treatments are frontline agents for other superficial skin 
conditions.