Scanning electron microscopic evaluation of tinea versicolor. Effects of treatment with miconazole nitrate and clotrimazole.

A study of tinea versicolor organisms was conducted in one patient by scanning electron microscopy. Morphologic changes in the organisms during treatment with topical clotrimazole and miconazole nitrate consisted of initial wrinkling of the surface, followed by fragmentation. These changes may have reflected cell wall alterations resulting from inhibited ergosterol synthesis induced by both treatment agents. The two drugs were effective in eliminating the organisms.