EPIDEMIOLOGICAL AND CLINICOMYCOLOGICAL FEATURES OF SUPERFICIAL DERMATOPHYTIC INFECTIONS

Abstract

Background: This study investigated the prevalence of superficial fungal infections (mycoses)
caused by dermatophytes in a region with a humid climate and heavy monsoon rains, conditions
known to favor their growth. The aim was to understand the types of dermatophytes present,
potentially aiding in infection control.
Methods: All individuals presenting with skin OPD with a clinical diagnosis of superficial
fungal infection were included in the study. Patient samples were obtained from the affected
areas, including skin, hair, or nails, based on the clinical presentation and suspected site of
infection. The affected region was meticulously cleansed using 70% ethyl alcohol and left to
air dry. Skin scales, crusts, or nail and hair fragments were carefully collected in clean white
paper packets. Skin lesions were sampled from the actively growing, erythematous peripheries.
Results: More common in males (11.25% each) compared to females (2.5% and 1.25%, respectively).
Tinea manuum: Slightly more common in females (7.5%) compared to males (5%). Tinea unguium:
More common in females (6.25%) compared to males (3.75%). Tinea pedis: Almost evenly distributed
between males (8.75%) and females (2.5%). Tinea capitis: Not observed in males, but present in 2.5%
of females. Tinea faciei: Mostly observed in males (7.5%) compared to females (1.25%). Pityriasis
versicolor: Observed only in females (2.5%). Multiple infections: 13.75% of individuals had both Tinea
corporis and Tinea cruris, with a higher prevalence in males (11.25%).
Conclusion: This study under its limitations concludes that the most commonly affected population by
dermatophytosis was 31 – 40 years old and predominantly involved male cases. After investigations in
the study, it was observed that the non-dermatophyte group was involved more than the dermatophyte
group in causing superficial fungal infection. However considering the duration of the study, we suggest
that extensive research can be carried out further in a more elaborative way.