Isolation And Identification Of Fungi Causing Dermatophytosis

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Dermatophytes are the most important fungi affecting the skin due to their extensive impact on people across the globe and their high prevalence in the general population.¹ This study aims to isolate and identify the dermatophytes and to compare the clinical diagnosis with potassium-hydroxide smear positivity and culture positivity.

MATERIALS & METHODS: 75 clinically suspected patients of dermatophytosis who attended the Department of Dermatology were included in the study after giving informed consent. The specimen is mounted in KOH (10% for skin scrapings and hair, 20-40% for nail clippings)  and was examined for the presence of thin, septate, and hyaline hyphae. The samples were inoculated on SDA slants containing 0.05% chloramphenicol, 0.1% gentamicin, and 0.5% Cycloheximide and dermatophyte test medium(DTM).

RESULTS:  The samples were collected from a wide range of age group falling in the range of   6-78 years. Most common age group affected was found to be 31-40 years. 22.85% cases of Tinea corporis were seen in the age group of 21-30 years. Tinea cruris was more common in the age group 21-30 and 31-40 years each with 4 cases(23.52%). 50% of children were affected with Tinea capitis .

CONCLUSION: The infection predominantly affects individuals between 31-40 years of age, with a higher incidence in males, especially those engaged in manual labor or household work. Laboratory identification through microscopy and culture confirms that T. rubrum is the most common species involved, followed by T. mentagrophytes and T. tonsurans. This highlights the need for targeted preventive measures and effective treatment strategies in these high-risk groups.