Occupational tinea corporis and tinea cruris in a port grain silo worker: a case report
- Author:
Hyeoncheol OH
1
Author Information
- Publication Type:Case report
- From:Kosin Medical Journal 2025;40(4):317-321
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:English
- Abstract: Port stevedores are exposed to diverse occupational hazards due to their handling of various types of cargo. While considerable attention has been given to accidents involving physical trauma and heat-related illnesses, infectious diseases caused by biological agents have received comparatively little recognition. This case report aims to underscore the biological risks present in port environments and the potential for secondary infections among workers, particularly those employed in grain silo facilities. Environmental factors such as high humidity, temperature fluctuations, and the accumulation of organic materials were assessed, as these conditions may foster fungal proliferation in grain storage areas. We report a case of dermatophytosis in a male port worker assigned to a grain silo. The patient developed skin lesions following prolonged exposure to dusty and humid working conditions. The fungal pathogen was identified through culture and microscopic examination. The patient’s symptoms improved markedly after discontinuation of work and initiation of appropriate antifungal therapy. This case highlights the need to consider fungal infections as occupational diseases in high-risk environments such as grain silos. Regular dermatologic screening should be incorporated into occupational health surveillance programs for port workers. Moreover, raising awareness of infectious disease risks in these settings is critical to preventing underdiagnosis and delayed treatment. Public health initiatives and workplace hygiene improvements should be implemented to mitigate biological hazards within the maritime labor sector.
