Trichophyton mentagrophytes genotype VII (TMVII) is an emerging dermatophyte infection that is typically spread through close contact, including sexual contact. Early reports of TMVII in Europe document infections among travelers returning from Southeast Asia, some of whom had contact with local sex workers. Recent studies highlight spread of TMVII infection among men who have sex with men (MSM), in particular in France, Germany, Italy, the United States, and probable cases in Austria. In June 2024, TMVII was identified in a patient in New York City in a man with male sex partners. Additional confirmed cases were subsequently reported in New York City in October 2024, also among MSM patients. No cases of zoonotic contamination have been reported to date. Dermatophytes may also spread via environmental exposures, although the degree to which TMVII spreads via environmental exposures and the risk to patients is unknown.

TMVII typically causes tinea genitalis, tinea pubogenitalis (involvement of pubic area and genital area), tinea glutealis (buttock involvement), and/or tinea barbae, but other body sites may also be involved, including the crural folds, face, and the trunk and extremities. While classic findings of tinea may be seen, plaques may be extensive and inflammatory, including nodules that resemble furuncles, carbuncles, or abscesses. Inappropriate application of topical steroids may lead to deeper dermal infection or atypical signs and symptoms of tinea, including tinea incognito.