The first reported case of a sexually transmitted fungal infection in the United States was Trichophyton mentagrophytes genotype VII (TMVII) in 2024. Other fungal infections can transmit through sexual activity, but doctors do not label them as sexually transmitted.

Trichophyton mentagrophytes (T. mentagrophytes) is a type of fungus that causes ringworm, a skin infection that appears as an itchy ring shape. In 2024, the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) issued a warning after some males presented with itchy, painful skin lesions on their genitals.

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T. mentagrophytes is a fungus species that can cause ringworm, a discolored, scaly, and itchy ring-shaped rash. TMVII is a subtype of this fungus. The first report of TVMII as a sexually transmitted fungal infection in the United States occurred in 2024.

Other fungal infections, such as tinea cruris or “jock itch,” can result in ringworm in the groin area, but it is not a sexually transmitted fungal infection.

Incidences of TMVII had occurred in other areas before 2024, such as in France and Southeast Asia. However, the first reported case in the United States involvedTrusted Source males in New York City who presented with ringworm on the buttocks, face, and genitals.

A 2025 case study reported that a 36-year-old male presented with small pus-filled pockets in the anal area, with similar symptoms appearing on their partner.

Symptoms of TMVII include:

  • swollen lesions on the skin
  • painful lesions
  • solid raised areas on the skin, known as papules
  • pus-filled lesions
  • scaling and flaking at the edge of lesions
  • itching

Many people may mistakeTrusted Source TMVII with eczema or psoriasis, both inflammatory skin conditions characterized by flaky, discolored skin.

TMVII usually appears on the trunk of the body, face, genitals, groin, or anal area.

If a person develops an itchy, scaly, or painful rash or lesions anywhere on the skin, it is important to speak with a doctor. They can determine the cause, mitigate spreading further on themselves and to others, and begin treatment.

TVMII occurs due to the transmission of dermatophytes, fungal organisms that infect skin, hair, and nails.

A person can contractTrusted Source TMVII through skin-to-skin contact or close human contact with a person who has TMVII.

Anyone who has been in contact with someone with TMVII can risk exposure to the infection. However, the leading risk factor is skin-to-skin contact, particularly during sexual contact.

The 2024 Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR) from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)Trusted Source noted that infections diagnosed from April to July 2024 in New York City were among males who had recent sexual contact with other males.

Antifungals are the first-line treatment for fungal infections such as TMVII. This may include oral antifungal medications. However, this is an emerging illness, and large studies on the best treatment are unavailable.

The same 2024 CDC reportTrusted Source indicates the use of antifungal treatments, such as oral terbinafine, topical clotrimazole, and luliconazole.

A 2025 case study involving a male with TMVII infection also reported gradual improvement with the treatment of oral itraconazole, topical meds, and antifungal medication.

Topical antifungal and steroid creams may not work on TMVII and may worsen spreading.

The only currently known sexually transmitted fungal infection is TMVII, which is rare. The CDCTrusted Source labels it an emerging infection, but few cases have occurred in the United States and worldwide, so it is not something to worry about currently.

Various oral antifungal medications can help treat the lesions resulting from TMVII.

The best way to prevent TMVII is to avoid close and personal contact with someone with the infection. Other general ways to prevent fungal infections include:

  • not sharing towels, clothes, or personal items with a person who has the infection
  • avoid sexual contact with a person who has the infection
  • discuss with sexual partners if an infection is present
  • wear shoes in public places

T. mentagrophytes genotype VII (TMVII) is an emerging sexually transmitted subtype of fungal infection. It can cause symptoms such as swollen, painful plaques on areas of the body.

Treatment usually involves oral antifungal medication, and the best way to prevent it is by avoiding sexual contact with the person who has the infection.