Clinico-mycological Evaluation of Dermatophytes and other Fungal Agents Isolated from Various Clinical Samples

Background: Human pathogenic dermatophytes are keratinophilic molds that infect human skin, nails and hairs. Three genera (Trichophyton, Micosporum and Epidermophyton) of these organisms exist: however, their preferred sites for infections vary. Current management often consists of the topical and systemic administration of antifungal agents or a combination of both. However, these approaches may not be successful in every case due to such factors as difficulty with long term application of topical medications. Despite the successful use of systemic medications side effects and drug resistance remains a major obstacle. The treatment of dermatophyte infections represents a significant cost burden.

Aims and Objectives: To study the epidemiology, clinical types and mycological features of dermatophytes from various clinical samples from dermatology department, Santosh Hospital.

Material and Method: A total of 100 samples were collected including infected skin, hair and nail samples for a period of six months. Before collecting the samples, 70% alcohol was applied to the infected area and ensured that it was totally dried. Skin samples were collected by scraping, nail sample by clipping and hair samples collected by using sterile forcep or scalpel. Identification was done by KOH mount, culture on SDA, pigment production, lactophenol cotton blue staining and biochemical tests and slide culture techniques.

Results: Dermatophytosis was manifested clinically more in the age group 21 - 30 years age. Tinea corporis was the predominant clinical presentation followed by Tinea cruris. Tinea capitis was the predominant clinical presentation in children and Tinea manuum was the commonest clinical type found in female patients. In the present study the male to female ratio was found 1.5 : 1. Majority of patients were belonged to the low socio-economic status. Trichophyton rubrum was the predominant pathogen followed by the Trichophyton mentagrophytes.

Conclusion: Tinea corporis was found the most common clinical type of dermatophytosis and Trichophyton rubrum was found the most common fungal isolate in this part of Uttar Pradesh.