Glossary

Fungi

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Microorganisms that gain the energy necessary for metabolism from the degradation and modification of organic compounds. Fungi reproduce sexually and asexually through spores or by vegetative growth.

In humans, there are mainly three groups that may cause diseases particularly affecting the skin, nails, mucous membranes and hair:

  • Yeasts (Candida) that inhabit the healthy intestinal environment and may trigger both superficial infections and infections affecting the entire body in humans with weakened immune system. (See also Candida albicans)
Candida albicans
Yeast (Candida albicans)
  • Moulds that cause infections on hair, nails and inner organs in people with weakened general condition.
Aspergillus brasiliensis
Mould (Aspergillus brasiliensis)
  • Filamentous fungi that may trigger superficial infections on the stratum corneum, nails or hair.
Trichophyton mentagrophytes
Filamentous fungus (Trichophyton mentagrophytes)
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