A New STI? What You Need to Know

A new kind of sexually transmitted infection (STI) is emerging in the United States, and it is changing how we think about skin infections and transmission. Caused by a fungus called Trichophyton mentagrophytes type VII, this infection spreads through close contact and often shows up as a rash in sensitive areas of the body. Because it can mimic other skin conditions and resist common treatments, many people may not realize what they are dealing with.

What Is Trichophyton Mentagrophytes Type VII?

This organism is a type of dermatophyte, a fungus that feeds on keratin found in skin, hair, and nails. Many people are familiar with dermatophytes because they cause conditions like athlete’s foot or ringworm.

What makes this strain unique is how it spreads and where it shows up. Instead of being limited to areas like the feet, it often affects the groin, genital region, and surrounding skin. Because of this, it is sometimes referred to as a sexually transmitted fungal infection.

It is important to understand that this infection spreads through skin to skin contact, not exclusively through sexual activity, but intimate contact increases the likelihood of transmission.

What Symptoms Should I Watch For?

According to public health agencies including the CDC and state health departments, Trichophyton mentagrophytes type VII most commonly presents as a rash in areas of close skin contact, particularly the groin, genital region, buttocks, and inner thighs.

Patients should watch for:

• Red, inflamed, or scaly patches of skin

• Itching, burning, or tenderness

• Well defined or spreading rashes that may resemble ringworm

• Lesions or plaques that may become more pronounced over time

• Rashes that do not improve with over the counter antifungal treatments

Health authorities note that this infection is often mistaken for other conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, or typical fungal infections like jock itch. Because of this, delays in diagnosis can occur.

If a rash is persistent, worsening, or not responding to standard topical antifungal treatments, medical evaluation and diagnostic testing are recommended to confirm the cause and guide appropriate treatment.

Photo from CDC. Additional images of symptoms can be viewed at Notes from the Field: Trichophyton mentagrophytes Genotype VII.

How Is This New STI Treated?

Guidance from public health agencies recommend prompt treatment including oral antifungal medications for Trichophyton mentagrophytes type VII, particularly because this strain can be persistent and may not respond to over the counter antifungal products. In some cases, prescription-strength topical antifungals may also be necessary.

It is important that care is guided by a licensed medical provider, as proper diagnosis and treatment selection are key to fully resolving the infection.

From a naturopathic perspective, I fully support this approach. Conventional antifungal medications are used to directly treat the infection. From a naturopathic perspective, it is equally important to support the body during and after treatment to help maintain balance and resilience.

This may include:

• Supporting liver function during oral antifungal use

• Helping maintain gut microbiome balance

• Reducing inflammation that can affect the skin

• Supporting immune function to help reduce the risk of recurrence

This integrative approach allows for effective treatment of the infection while also supporting the systems that contribute to long term skin and immune health.

A Naturopathic Perspective on Fungal Infections

In naturopathic medicine, I always come back to one core idea: the terrain matters.

Fungi are part of our environment and even exist on and within the body. The question is not just exposure, but why an overgrowth is able to take hold.

Here are the areas I focus on when supporting patients:

Skin Barrier Health

Healthy skin acts as a protective shield. Supporting hydration, avoiding overly harsh products, and ensuring adequate nutrient intake all help maintain this barrier.

Immune System Resilience

A well functioning immune system helps keep microbial balance in check. Sleep, stress management, and nutrient status all play a role here.

Gut Microbiome Balance

The gut and skin are deeply connected. When the gut microbiome is disrupted, it can influence inflammation and susceptibility to infections. Supporting digestion and microbial diversity is foundational.

Reducing Internal Inflammation

Higher sugar intake and processed foods can contribute to an environment where fungi thrive. I guide patients toward balanced, anti inflammatory nutrition that supports overall health.

Prevention: What You Can Do

1. Practice good hygiene, especially after sweating or exercise

2. Wear breathable, loose fitting clothing

3. Avoid prolonged moisture in the groin area

4. Be mindful of skin to skin contact if a partner has a rash

5. Seek evaluation for any unusual or persistent skin changes

Prevention also includes strengthening your body’s natural defenses. When your immune system and skin barrier are supported, you are less likely to develop persistent infections.

When to Seek Care

If you notice a rash that:

• Is not improving with over the counter treatments

• Is spreading or becoming more inflamed

• Is located in the groin or genital region

it is important to seek medical evaluation. Proper diagnosis ensures that you receive the right treatment early on.

If you are navigating a persistent skin concern or simply want to strengthen your overall resilience, this is an opportunity to take a more integrative, proactive approach to your health.

References

1. Cleveland Clinic. Sexually Transmitted Fungal Infection.

2. Duke Global Health Institute. New STI Spreading in the US.

3. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). MMWR Report on Trichophyton mentagrophytes Type VII.

4. Minnesota Department of Health. TMVII Basics.