Experimental human Trichophyton mentagrophytes infections.

Inflammatory dermatophytosis was induced on the ankles, thighs, or forearms of 40 men using purified spore suspensions of a granular strain of Trichophyton mentagrophytes . Standard reproducible infections resulted from the application of a quantitated dose of spores to a measured skin area followed by continuous occlusion with a plastic patch for 4 days. Alternate methods of inducing infections included the use of infected skin scales as a source of spores and the substitution of damp clothing for the occlusive patch. The injections healed spontaneously within 90 days of onset. None spread to other body areas or to other persons. Details are provided on the methods of preparing purified spare preparations, quantifying inocula, and applying ucclusive patches.