Infectious Dermatoses in Sport: A Review of Diagnosis, Management, and Return-to-Play Recommendations

Curr Sports Med Rep. 2021 Feb 1;20(2):92-103. doi: 10.1249/JSR.0000000000000808.

Abstract

Infectious dermatoses represent a significant source of morbidity and missed athletic participation among athletes. Close quarters and skin trauma from contact sports can lead to outbreaks among teams and athletic staff. The National Collegiate Athletic Association and National Federation of State High School Associations have published guidance with recommended management and return-to-play criteria for common fungal, bacterial, viral, and parasitic rashes. In addition to rapidly diagnosing and treating infectious dermatoses, team physicians should counsel athletes and athletic staff on proper equipment care and personal hygiene to reduce infection transmission. Clinicians should always consult sport and athlete governing bodies for sport-specific recommendations.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Anti-Infective Agents / therapeutic use
  • Disease Transmission, Infectious / prevention & control
  • Disinfection
  • Humans
  • Hygiene
  • Return to Sport*
  • Skin Diseases, Infectious / diagnosis*
  • Skin Diseases, Infectious / drug therapy*
  • Skin Diseases, Infectious / transmission
  • Sports / physiology*
  • Sports Equipment

Substances

  • Anti-Infective Agents