What can cause dermatophyte fungi to invade the skin?

Dermatophyte fungi are a group of fungi that thrive on keratin, a protein found in the hair, skin, and nails. The stratum corneum, which is the outermost layer of the skin, is composed largely of keratin. This layer serves as a barrier to protect the underlying tissues but can also provide an environment where dermatophyte fungi can feed and proliferate, especially if there are conditions that help them grow, such as moisture or compromised skin.

The presence of keratin in the stratum corneum is critical because it is the main substance that dermatophytes are equipped to digest, allowing them to invade and establish infections such as ringworm or athlete's foot. This relationship between keratin and dermatophyte fungi indicates that when conditions are favorable, these fungi can infect the skin by exploiting the keratinized surfaces.

The other options do not directly facilitate the invasion of dermatophyte fungi. Exposure to sunlight may have some effects on skin health but does not contribute to fungal invasion. A high intake of dairy products has no significant connection to dermatophyte infections, as the nutrients and compounds in dairy do not promote fungal growth on the skin. While cuts or abrasions in the skin can indeed lead to