Changing and Rising Scenario of Dermatophytosis in India: Causes and Solutions

Indian association of dermatologists, venereologists and leprologists (IADVL) task force against recalcitrant tinea (ITART) consensus on the management of glabrous tinea (INTACT)

“…The number of days with maximum temperature exceeding 35°C in various cities in India has also increased. [ 61 62 ] A hot and humid climate favours the growth of dermatophytes, while humidity can enhance penetration of fungi. [ 63 64 65 ] In a study from Kerala done in 2016, 52% of patients with chronic dermatophytosis were manual labourers.…”

“…Hence, patients should be advised to avoid using synthetic or tight clothing and should preferably use loose cotton clothes. [ 62 ]…”

“…[ 32 ] Hence the worn clothes of patients should be stored and washed separately in hot water at 60°C and dried inside out in the sun. [ 62 ] Similarly, ironing of clothes may also be beneficial. Waistbands, wristbands and threads, which aid the persistence of dermatophytes are better avoided.…”

“…Waistbands, wristbands and threads, which aid the persistence of dermatophytes are better avoided. [ 62 ]…”

The Changing Scenario of Dermatophytosis in Children

“…Global warming has adversely affected the climatic conditions in India, with rise in temperatures and humidity, leading to increased susceptibility to develop dermatophytosis, almost throughout the year. [ 4 ] Sharing of fomites with the infected family members or close contacts, use of tight synthetic garments such as jeans and leggings, synthetic uniforms and track pants, poor personal hygiene, increased physical activity and overcrowding result in a perfect milieu for the multiplication of dermatophytes, especially among the adolescents. In the study on pediatric dermatophytosis by Ray et al ,[ 5 ] published in this issue, the mean duration of infection was observed to be higher in children who gave history of irregular bathing, overcrowded environment and more than four infected family members.…”