Dermophyte

/ˈdɜrmoʊfaɪt/ noun

Definition

A plant or organism that lives on or in the skin, especially a fungus that causes skin infections like athlete's foot or ringworm.

Etymology

From Greek 'derma' (skin) + 'phyton' (plant). Medical term created to classify parasitic organisms that inhabit the skin layer.

Kelly Says

Dermophytes are tiny freeloaders that have evolved to love the warm, moist environment of your skin—which is why athlete's foot spreads in locker rooms and pools where conditions are perfect for them!

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