Scale Fungus
Transmission & Vectors
Scale Fungus is spread by spores, most often in humid environments. Scale rot, another name of the condition, is the name given to a variety of fungal infections that infect the scales of a variety of species. It does not only occur in the sentient races, but animals as well.
Causes
Not properly drying scales after bathing, too long soaking in stagnant water, or bathing in dirty or contaminated water are common causes of scale rot. The fungus can become infections at any stage of its lifecycle, and is extremely common in moist conditions.
Symptoms
Breakdown and discoloration of the scales, fuzzy mold-like appearance to infected areas, itching, blisters, and inflammation are all common symptoms.
Treatment
Scale rot is primarily treated by drying out the infected areas. This is often done by stopping all bathes for a period of around one week and rigorously drying the afflicted areas after any contact with moisture. Some treatments such as dustings with clays, rice powder, and UV light have also proven effective in reducing the size of infected areas of scales, in many cases removing the infection entirely.
Prognosis
Areas that have previously been affected by scale rot are easily infected again for up to 3 years, until those scales have been completely shed and entirely replaced. Many areas in which the affected person has repeatedly itched or scratched may also have extensive scarring, which often seems to increase the likelihood of repeated infection or future infections becoming chronic.
Prevention
Properly drying the scales and avoiding untreated or dirty water for bathing are the primary ways to prevent scale fungus from developing. Creams, waxes, and scale oils are commonly sold in humid areas that also work as a preventative measure for those not used to those conditions.
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