Eco-epidemiologic study of emerging fungi related to the work of babaçu coconut breakers in the State of Maranhão, Brazil

Abstract

introduction:There are more than 300,000 extractors using the babaçu coconut as a source of income in the States of Maranhão, Pará, Tocantins and Piauí, and this activity is associated with fungal infections. The objective of this study was to examine the occurrence of emergent fungi in the conjunctiva, nails and surface and subcutaneous injuries of female coconut breakers in Esperantinópolis, Maranhão. Additionally, soil samples and palm structures were collected. Methods: The obtained samples were cultured in Petri dishes containing potato-dextrose-agar and chloramphenicol. The etiological agent was confi rmed by a direct mycological exam and growth in culture. Results: In total, 150 domiciles were visited, and samples were collected from 80 patients. From the ground, the most frequently isolated fungus was Aspergillus niger (53. 8%). the most frequently detected fungus in babaçu coconut was Aspergillus niger (66.7%). Conjunctival fungal growth occurred in 76.3% of the women. The ocular fungal microbiota consisted of fi lamentous fungi (80.6%), and yeasts were present in 19.4% of cases. Onychomycosis was diagnosed in 44% (11/25) of the women. Conclusions: The identifi cation of the genera Neosartorya, Rhizopus and Curvularia in onychomycoses shows that emergent fi lamentous fungi can be isolated. Aspergillus sp., Penicillium sp. and Scedosporium sp. were the predominant genera found in the babaçu coconut. From ocular conjunctiva, Candida spp. were the most prevalent species isolated, and Fusarium sp. was present only in one woman. The nearly permanent exposure of coconut breakers to the external environment and to the soil is most likely the reason for the existence of a mycotic fl ora and fungal infections, varying according to the individual's practices and occupation.

The prevalence of dermatophytoses in Brazil: a systematic review

“…Ex Spreng) breakers. T. rubrum and T. interdigitale were prevalent in this study [29]. All other studies were in urban environments.…”

A Review of Onychomycosis Due to Aspergillus Species

“…None of the above predisposing factors is specific for Aspergillus spp. However, Aspergillus onychomycosis is seen more among individuals with occupational exposures such as vegetable vendors [ 17 ] and among babassu coconut breakers [ 18 ], diabetics and the elderly [ 19 ]. Some individuals diagnosed with onychomycosis due to Aspergillus spp.…”

Aspergillus Genus and Its Various Human Superficial and Cutaneous Features

“…Onychomycosis is associated with barefoot walking, and paronychia predispose to onychomycosis, especially in sport activities (athlete’s foot) [ 18 ]. Aspergillus onychomycosis is seen more among individuals with occupational exposure, as described among vegetable vendors and babassu coconut breakers [ 31 , 32 , 33 ] and among patients after exposures such as gardening or household chores [ 18 ]. Many reports have depicted primary infection in immunocompetent patient in association with previous agricultural trauma [ 34 ].…”