Sore

My wife has got a sore on her right leg due to untreated wound few years back. And it was growing wider and wider and left a scar mark. She had consult skin doctor and she informed her that it was fungal infection. Then she was treated with antifungal. But in vain, it isn't working, please help!

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
If it is a fungal infection, then your wife needs to get a KOH examination of the skin scrapings done. Once fungal infection of the sore is confirmed then she needs topical and oral antifungals. Various reasons for recurrent or persistent fungal infection are incomplete treatment, treatment resistance, co-existing dermatitis, diabetes and low immunity. Treatment resistance can be overcome by applying a cream with a combination of antifungals (Clotrimazole 1%, Miconazole nitrate 2%, Tolnaftate 1% and Butenafine hydrochloride 1%). Get her blood sugar tested, fasting, 2 hours after food and if these are high then glycosylated hemoglobin to see overall sugar status in last 3 months.

It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your doctor. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.