A survey of the etiological agents of scalp and nail dermatophytosis in Yazd, Iran in 2014-2015

Abstract

Background and Purpose:Tinea capitis and tinea unguium are regarded as global public health concerns. The purpose of the present study was to identify the etiological agents of tinea capitis and tinea unguium in patients, referring to the Central Laboratory of Yazd University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran.Materials and Methods:This study was conducted during 2014-2015. Skin scraping, scalp hair, and nail clipping specimens were collected from 134 patients (80 males and 54 females) with clinical features suggesting fungal involvement. Direct microscopic examinations were carried out, using potassium hydroxide 10%, while culture studies were performed on Sabouraud dextrose agar, containing chloramphenicol and cycloheximide at 28°C for four weeks. Fungal colonies were identified based on their macroscopic and microscopic characteristics, as well as supplementary diagnostic tests. Results:Among 134 patients, 12 cases showed positive results on direct examination and culture studies. The frequency of infections was equal among male and female subjects. Among 12 affected cases, the frequency of tinea capitis and tinea unguium was 91.6% and 8.4%, respectively. Microsporum canis (50%) was the most prevalent species, followed by Trichophyton verrucosum (25%) and Trichophyton mentagrophytes (25%). Also, tinea unguium, caused by T. mentagrophytes, was found in a female patient.Conclusion:The etiological agents of scalp and nail dermatophytosis have changed in Yazd over the past 13 years. In the present study, replacement of anthropophilic dermatophytes by zoophilic species was noteworthy, highlighting the necessity of efficient surveillance for the management and prevention of infections.

Epidemiological Characterization of Dermatomycosis in Ethiopia

“…In addition, the maceration of periungual tissue caused by the use of manicure tools can result cross-infection among people who use this service. 27,28 However, this finding is in contrast to other studies who reported tinea corporis, 21 tinea capitis 29 and tinea cruris 30 as the commonest clinical manifestations than tinea unguium. Tinea capitis is the second most common form of tinea and accounted 24.1% of all dermatomycosis.…”

“…This is similar to previous studies. 27 , 28 Several authors suggest that inability to maintain good nail care and cosmetic reasons, reduced growth rate of the ungual plate, frequent housework, poor peripheral circulation and an increase in trauma rates could play an important role in this manifestation. 25 , 28 The high prevalence of dermatomycosis on toenails and the importance of this site concerning dermatomycosis are reported in several studies.…”

“… 27 , 28 Several authors suggest that inability to maintain good nail care and cosmetic reasons, reduced growth rate of the ungual plate, frequent housework, poor peripheral circulation and an increase in trauma rates could play an important role in this manifestation. 25 , 28 The high prevalence of dermatomycosis on toenails and the importance of this site concerning dermatomycosis are reported in several studies. 25 , 28 These reports stated that the infection at this site could be due to, lack of hygiene, use of shoes over long periods of time, lack of protection at work and poor circulation.…”

“… 25 , 28 The high prevalence of dermatomycosis on toenails and the importance of this site concerning dermatomycosis are reported in several studies. 25 , 28 These reports stated that the infection at this site could be due to, lack of hygiene, use of shoes over long periods of time, lack of protection at work and poor circulation. Onychomycosis is usually considered of occupational nature, especially among activities that require frequent contact with water.…”

“…In addition, the maceration of periungual tissue caused by the use of manicure tools can result cross-infection among people who use this service. 27 , 28 …”