Which sign could suggest dermatophytosis?

• A. Red areas around the nose and eyes
• B. Crusty lesions around a few hairs or a slight scaliness of the skin
• C. Elevated body temperature
• D. Pruritic lesions on the skin

Answer: (B)

Dermatophytosis tends to produce localized crusting and scaling around hair shafts, reflecting fungal invasion of keratinized skin and hair follicles. That crusty lesion around a few hairs or subtle skin scaliness is the most characteristic sign, making it the best clue for this fungal infection. Red areas around the nose and eyes suggest dermatitis or irritation rather than a fungal pattern; an elevated body temperature would indicate a systemic issue rather than a localized skin infection; pruritus can occur with many skin problems and isn’t as specific to dermatophytosis as the crusted, hair-associated lesion.