CLINICOMYCOLOGICAL STUDY OF DERMATOMYCOSES IN A TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL
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Keywords
Dermatomycoses, Dermatophytes, Candida, Non-dermatophyte moulds, KOH mount, Sabouraud’s dextrose agar
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Dermatomycoses are common superficial fungal infections affecting skin, hair, and nails, caused by dermatophytes, yeasts, and non-dermatophyte moulds. Regional variations in causative agents necessitate periodic clinico-mycological studies to guide diagnosis and treatment. The present study was conducted to assess the clinical patterns and mycological profile of dermatomycosis in patients attending a tertiary care centre.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study was conducted on 50 patients with clinically suspected dermatomycosis. Samples (skin scrapings, nail clippings, hair stubs) were subjected to KOH mount and culture on Sabouraud’s dextrose agar. Fungal isolates were identified using standard macroscopic and microscopic techniques using LPCB mount and germ tube tests. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics.
RESULTS: Among 50 patients, 32 (64%) were males and 18 (36%) females. The most affected age group was 21–40 years (44%). Tinea corporis (36%) and tinea cruris (20%) were the predominant clinical types. KOH mount was positive in 34 cases (68%), culture in 30 cases (60%), and overall mycological confirmation was achieved in 38 cases (76%). Dermatophytes accounted for 65.8% of isolates, with Trichophyton rubrum (39.5%) and T. mentagrophytes (26.3%) predominating. Candida spp. (18.4%) and non-dermatophyte moulds (15.8%) were mainly seen in nail and atypical infections.
CONCLUSION: Dermatophytes, particularly T. rubrum, remain the primary pathogens in dermatomycoses. The emergence of Candida and non-dermatophyte moulds, especially in nails, underscores the importance of culture-based diagnosis for effective therapy and prevention of recurrences.
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Dr. Chandan D Sabale
Associate Professor, Department of Microbiology, S R Patil Medical College, Hospital & Research Centre, Badagandi , Bilagi, Bagalkot , Karnataka
Dr. Hajra Tasneem Masali
Assistant Professor, Department of Microbiology, S R Patil Medical College, Hospital & Research Centre Badagandi, Bilagi, Bagalkot, Karnataka
Dr. Aparna Y Takpere
Professor & HOD, Department of Microbiology, S R Patil Medical College, Hospital & Research Centre Badagandi, Bilagi, Bagalkot, Karnataka
Dr.Mohit Malge
Professor, Department of Physiology, FH Medical College and Hospital, Agra, Uttar Pradesh