A Cross-Sectional, Clinico-Mycological Research Study of Prevalence, Aetiology, Speciation and Sensitivity of Superficial Fungal Infection in Indian Patients

Abstract

Introduction: Skin is a mechanically protective layer as well as cosmetically significant anatomical structure. The superficial cutaneous fungal infections involve its outer most covering including appendages like hair and nails. This the most common causes of skin disease in many tropical countries. Objectives: To study the prevalence, aetiology, speciation and sensitivity of superficial fungal infections. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted on 100 clinically diagnosed cases of Superficial Fungal Infection attending the Dermatology OPD for a period of 6 months. Detailed history was taken in relation to age, sex, duration of illness, personal history, recurrent infections etc. Clinical examination of lesion included number, types of lesions, scaling, presence of crusts or pustules, scarring, black dot appearances, hair lusture etc. Samples like skin scrapings, hair stubs, nail clippings and pus were collected for KOH study and fungal culture. Results: Dermatophyte infection mostly Tinea corporis is found to be more in male in 20-30 years age group of population. Covered part of the body is affected more and commonly hygiene plays a major part of its occurrence. KOH positivity is found in 68% and culture positivity in 88.2% of the clinically diagnosed cases with Trichophyton species as the commonest. Fluconazole and Clotrimazole found to be highly sensitive ; Ketoconazole fount to be partially sensitive with 65%. Conclusion: Dermatophytes were the commonest mycological isolate with Trichophyton rubrum as the common infecting species. Young male preponderance with involvement of covered areas of the body of both skilled and unskilled workers. This can be prevented by a meticulous personal hygiene. Fluconazole and Clotrimazole found to be highly sensitive.

Profile of dermatophytosis in a tertiary care center in Kerala, India

“…Dermatophytic infections are one of the most common diseases encountered by dermatologists in outpatient departments and there has been an increasing trend of dermatophytosis over the last few years in different parts of India. [12] There is a changing trend in the dermatophytic infections in that the cases are presenting as chronic, treatment unresponsive and recurrent cases. [3] This superficial fungal infection was an easily treatable condition for the practitioners previously with the commonly used antifungals.…”

Influence of dermatophytosis on quality of life: a cross sectional study from Kashmir Valley in North India

“…Comparison of studies done on superficial fungal infections in different cities of the country during different time frames have revealed an increasing trend of dermatophytosis. [2][3][4] India, being a tropical country, has a climate that is conducive for superficial fungal infections. The reported prevalence of dermatophytosis in India ranges from 36.6 to 78.4%.…”

Antifungal susceptibility pattern of dermatomycosis in a tertiary care hospital of North India

“…14 However, many studies have reported Trichophyton rubrum as the commonest isolate. [15][16][17] Another important aspect of this study was to carry out antifungal sensitivity testing of five commonly used antifungal drugs Fluconazole, Terbinafine, Itraconazole, Griseofulvin and Voriconazole. Determining the resistance pattern is especially necessary to assist clinicians in treating superficial fungal infections more effectively.…”