[Epidemic outbreak of tinea corporis due to Microsporum gypseum].

A small epidemic of tinea corporis due to M. gypseum is reported. There were 13 children affected, ages 1-15 years. These children belonged to 6 neighbouring families and all used a common "playground", an empty lot located nearby. Cultures were positive for M. gypseum in the 13 children and the agent was also isolated from 2 soils collected in the playing-ground. Soil isolates were classified as N. gypsea. Clinically, the lesions were circinated and had active borders, they were preferentially located in the trunk. Most children (8/13) had multiple lesions. These and other pertinent aspects are discussed in the text.