Symptoms and Signs of Fungal Skin Infection vs. Eczema

Doctor's Notes on Fungal Skin Infection vs. Eczema

The fungus candida commonly causes fungal skin infections (also called a yeast infection), although some other types of fungi can cause infection as well. Examples of fungal skin infections include diaper rash, systemic candidiasis, candidal paronychia, and body rash. Eczema (also called eczematous dermatitis) is a common skin condition that causes skin irritation and inflammation.

Symptoms and signs of candida fungal infections and eczema that are similar include:

• skin redness, 
• itching (may be intense), and 
• red rash. 

Symptoms and signs of fungal skin infections vary depending on the location of the infection and may also include: 

• softened red skin in body fold areas, 
• hot and painful skin, and 
• discoloration of the fingernails and toenails. 

Symptoms and signs of eczema also include: 

• bumps that itch and burn, 
• painful cracks in the skin, 
• puffy/red/itching eyelids, and 
• oozing or crusty sores.

What Is the Treatment for Fungal Skin Infection vs. Eczema?

Fungal infections of the skin are treated with antifungal medications. The exact type of treatment depends on the type of infection. Some infections may be resolved with an over-the-counter antifungal cream, while others may require prescription topical or oral medications to eradicate the infection.

Eczema treatment involves creams to soothe the skin and reduce inflammation. Some newer topical drugs affect the body’s immune reaction. Severe cases are sometimes treated with oral corticosteroid drugs. A new, injectable drug known as dupilumab (Dupixent) may be used to treat severe cases that do not respond to other treatment options.