Title: Menace of Chronic Dermatophytosis - A Descriptive Study in a Tertiary Care Center
Authors: Jamuna SL, Kaviarasan PK, Prasad PVS, Kannambal K, Poorana B, Abhirami C
DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.18535/jmscr/v7i10.25
Abstract
Background: Dermatophytes are the most common superficial fungal infection worldwide. The distribution ofdermatophytosis vary according to the geographic region studied. Chronicdermatophytosis is now being increasingly encountered and runs a protracted course with exacerbations and remissions. Hence we studied this problem with regard to the epidemiology, etiology and associated risk factors.
Aims: We sought to determine the various host and pathogen factors responsible for chronic dermatophytic infections and to identify the causative fungal species.
Materials and Methods: Seventy two clinically diagnosed cases of chronic dermatophytosis attending the Dermatology venereology leprosy outpatient department of RMMCH, Chidambaram were included in the study. Detailed history and clinical examination were recorded in pre-designed proforma. Direct microscopy with 10% KOHmount and culture using SDA medium was done.
Results: Chronic dermatophytosis (duration >6 months) was observed in 60%. Male female ratio 1.5:1 and most common age group 21-30yrs (37.5%). Multiple site involvement was the most common clinical presentation, 54.1% of patients (n=39). Among the risk factors, 72% of patients had contact with intrafamilial contacts, 60% had history of fomite sharing, 53.2% of patients had irrational use topical corticosteroid creams. KOH mount showed fungal hyphae in 77.5% and definitive culture characteristics was observed in 56%.Trichophytonmentagrophytes was the most common species identified (50.8%).
Conclusion: Irrationaluse of topical corticosteroids, poor compliance to treatment, lack of health awareness and various other host and agent factors, seem to have all contributed to the chronicity and recurrence of dermatophytosis.
Keywords: chronic dermatophytosis, corticosteroid abuse, risk factors, KOH - potassium hydroxide, SDA– Sabouraud dextrose agar.
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