Trichomycosis Axillaris Medication
- Author: Zeina Nehme Ghorayeb, MD; Chief Editor: Dirk M Elston, MD more...
Medication Summary
Treatment of trichomycosis axillaris can be achieved simply by shaving the affected hair. Application of a benzoyl peroxide gel or wash is effective and prevents recurrence. Antiperspirants also provide an effective means of therapy and prevention. Fusidic acid may be helpful in treating trichomycosis axillaris.
Topical skin products
Class Summary
Useful in the treatment of irritation caused by oxidized bacterial proteins in sebaceous follicles.
Benzoyl peroxide (Benzac, Benoxyl, Clearasil)
Free-radical oxygen is released upon administration and oxidizes bacterial proteins in sebaceous follicles, decreasing the number of anaerobic bacterial and irritating free fatty acids. Converted on the skin into benzoic acid, which has an antibacterial activity, as well as keratolytic and comedolytic effects.
Available in 2.5%, 5%, and 10% gels, lotions, creams, or washes.
Antiperspirants
Class Summary
Interfere with normal secretions of sweat glands, drying the affected area. A variety of antiperspirants are available OTC; prescription strength topical desiccant listed below.
Aluminum chloride hexahydrate (Drysol)
Astringent agent used in management of hyperhidrosis.
Solution of 20% aluminum chloride in ethyl alcohol.
Topical antibiotics
Class Summary
Work by inhibiting growth of microorganisms causing trichomycosis axillaris.
Clindamycin solution (Cleocin T)
Lincosamide for treatment of serious skin and soft tissue staphylococcal infections. Inhibits bacterial growth, possibly by blocking dissociation of peptidyl t-RNA from ribosomes causing RNA-dependent protein synthesis to arrest.
Upon application to the skin, drug is converted to active component, which inhibits the microorganism.
Available as topical solution, lotion, or gel for external use. Solution contains equivalent of 10 mg/mL clindamycin.
Erythromycin topical (T-Stat)
Inhibits bacterial growth, possibly by blocking dissociation of peptidyl t-RNA from ribosomes causing RNA-dependent protein synthesis to arrest. For treatment of staphylococcal and streptococcal infections.
Available as a 2% topical solution.
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Wilson C, Dawber R. Trichomycosis axillaris: a different view. J Am Acad Dermatol. Aug 1989;21(2 Pt 1):325-6. [Medline].
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