Global Insights and Trends in Research on Dermatophytes and Dermatophytosis: A Bibliometric Analysis.

BACKGROUND: Dermatophytosis, caused by dermatophytes, affects up to 25% of people globally, with higher rates observed in Africa and Asia. While these infections are usually superficial, they can become severe in immunocompromised individuals. Despite their high prevalence, scientific research on dermatophytes is limited and the epidemiological data available are insufficient. In addition, diagnostic methods are not standardised and there are challenges with resistance to antifungals. OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to conduct a bibliometric analysis of scientific publications related to dermatophytes and dermatophytosis to assess research output and trends. METHODS: A bibliometric analysis of publications from 2000 to 2023 in Web of Science and Scopus examined trends, citation counts, publication types, key journals, top authors and institutions and funding sources. RESULTS: The analysis revealed a significant increase in dermatophyte-related publications, with 15,868 articles retrieved from the Web of Science and 23,189 from Scopus. Research articles dominated the output, constituting 76.2% in Web of Science and 80% in Scopus. Peak publication years were 2019, 2021 and 2022 in Web of Science, and 2020, 2021 and 2023 in Scopus, with lower output between 2000 and 2002. The United States and India were the leading contributors, followed by Brazil and China, though citation metrics varied. Although there has been a rise in the number of publications, the amount of research conducted on dermatophytes is still very limited in comparison with other types of fungal diseases. CONCLUSIONS: Dermatophyte-related research has increased over the past 2 decades. However, research gaps remain, particularly compared with other fungal diseases. Advances in diagnostics, antifungal testing and taxonomic classification are urgently needed. The study underscores the need for continued research and global collaboration to address these issues.

Prevalence of onychomycosis among psoriasis patients: a clinico-mycological and dermoscopic comparative cross sectional study.

Onychomycosis, a nail infection caused by dermatophytes, yeast, and molds makes up roughly half of all onychopathies and is the most prevalent nail condition in the world. Clinically, nail psoriasis and onychomycosis can frequently be difficult to distinguish from one another. To assess the prevalence of onychomycosis in patients with psoriasis. Fifty patients with psoriasis associated with nail disease were included in this study. After taking clinical history, nail samples were gathered for dermoscopic inspection, culture, direct microscopy with 20% KOH solution, and nail clipping with PAS stain. Of the 50 patients recruited, 43 were males and 7 were females, with mean age 6-71 years (mean ± SD 44.06 ± 16.2). Eleven patients (22%) tested positive for onychomycosis. Dermatophytes were isolated from 2% of patients, yeast from 14% of patients, and non-dermatophytic mold from 38% of patients. Histopathological results revealed fungal hyphae and spores in 18% of patients. The most prevalent dermoscopic sign in psoriatic patients with onychomycosis was spikes (81.8%) with statistical significance (P-value < 0.001), while nail pitting was the most prevalent dermoscopic feature in nail psoriasis. This study lays the way for an accurate diagnosis of nail lesions by highlighting the significance of cooperation between mycology, histology, and dermoscopy in the diagnosis of onychomycosis in patients with nail psoriasis.

Understanding Global Access to Topical Onychomycosis Therapy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

INTRODUCTION: Equal access to medicines is crucial to ensuring public health, but access is difficult to measure, especially for infections where changes in infective species make treatment choices highly dynamic. This study investigated if the combination of infection prevalence with medicine efficacy and regulatory availability could access medicines access of topical onychomycosis medicines. METHODS: Two databases, PubMed and Web of Science, were used to identify relevant information published between 1990 and 2019. For the meta-analysis, human onychomycosis investigations using PCR analysis were included. Reviewers independently selected eligible articles, extracted data and assessed the study quality. A random-effects meta-analysis model with a Freeman-Tukey transformation was employed to the PCR data. For the meta-analysis, the global infection trends and regional differences in the infective organisms were determined. RESULTS: Of the 26 studies analysed, the PCR analysis in 18 studies confirmed onychomycosis in about half of the visually suspected cases (55%, CI 43%-67%). Across all 26 studies dermatophytes were the most prevalent infective organism (57%, CI 37%-76%), but a sub-group analysis showed yeasts predominated in females (31%, CI 0%-84%) (p < 0.0001), in fingernail infections (42%, CI 21%-65%) (p < 0.0001) and in arid countries (p < 0.0001). Combining these results with medicine efficacy data showed that residents from 83 of the 92 countries assessed (90%) could not access the most efficacious topical product, and 22% could not access any broad-spectrum agents. Countries in Africa had the poorest access to topical onychomycosis medicines. CONCLUSION: This study identified that access to effective topical products for onychomycosis is a global problem. This issue appeared to be due to under-representation of candida infections in pivotal clinical studies of topical onychomycosis products. A head-to-head multicentre study for topical efinaconazole or a novel broad spectrum topical agent is needed to help resolve these access problems. PROTOCOL REGISTRATION: PROSPERO-CRD42023464744.

Monocentric evaluation of the Novaplex dermatophyte multiplex qPCR assay in the diagnosis of dermatophytoses.

Superficial fungal infections caused by dermatophytes are a prevalent global health concern. Rapid and accurate diagnosis of these pathogens through molecular tools would offer a substantial advantage for early detection and effective treatment. The conventional fungal culture presents inherent limitations, including extended result delivery delay and variable sensitivity. This study aimed to evaluate the performance of the multiplex real-time PCR Novaplex dermatophyte assay (Seegene) in comparison to traditional mycological methods including direct examination and culture. A total of 312 nail, skin, and scalp samples collected from patients with suspected superficial fungal infections for mycological diagnosis were retrospectively subjected to the Novaplex dermatophyte assay. Overall, 170 (54.6%) and 186 (59.6%) samples tested positive for dermatophyte culture and dermatophyte PCR, respectively. The concordance between PCR and culture for dermatophyte detection was 87.2%. There were 158 culture-positive/PCR-positive samples, 12 culture-positive/PCR-negative samples, and 28 culture-negative/PCR-positive samples. The sensitivity of PCR against culture varied according to the dermatophyte target, ranging from 90.5% (Trichophyton mentagrophytes/interdigitale/benhamiae), 91.2% (Trichophyton rubrum), to 100% (Microsporum spp. and Trichophyton tonsurans). When considering the final diagnosis using composite criteria, the sensitivity and specificity for the diagnosis of dermatophytosis were 92.9% and 96.6% for PCR, 86.7% and 100% for culture, and 95.4% and 92.2% for direct examination and culture combined, respectively. The Seegene Novaplex dermatophyte assay is an easy-to-use automated one-step extraction-PCR system that offers satisfactory performance for routine diagnosis of dermatophytoses in clinical laboratories, particularly in non-specialized centers. However, it cannot fully replace conventional mycology due to its inability to detect mold infections and to identify dermatophytes at the species level.

Detection of terbinafine-resistant Trichophyton indotineae isolates within the Trichophyton mentagrophytes species complex isolated from patients in Hue City, Vietnam: A comprehensive analysis.

The Trichophyton mentagrophytes complex comprises a group of dermatophyte fungi responsible for various dermatological infections. The increasing drug resistance of this species complex, especially terbinafine resistance of Trichophyton indotineae, is a major concern in dermatologist practice. This study provides a comprehensive analysis of T. mentagrophytes complex strains isolated from patients in Hue City, Vietnam, focusing on their phenotypic and genetic characteristics, antifungal susceptibility profiles, and molecular epidemiology. Keratinophilic fungi from dermatophytosis culture samples were identified morphologically and phenotypically, with species and genotypes confirmed by internal transcribed spacer sequencing and phylogenetic analysis. Antifungal susceptibility testing was carried out to evaluate their susceptibility to itraconazole, voriconazole, and terbinafine. The 24% (n = 27/114) of superficial mycoses were phenotypically attributed to T. mentagrophytes complex isolates. Trichophyton interdigitale, mainly genotype II*, was predominant (44.4%), followed by T. mentagrophytes genotype III* (22.2%), T. indotineae (14.8%), T. tonsurans (11.2%), and T. mentagrophytes (7.4%). While all isolates were susceptible to itraconazole and voriconazole, half of T. indotineae isolates exhibited resistance to terbinafine, linked to the Phe397Leu mutation in the SQLE protein. This study highlighted the presence of terbinafine-resistant T. indotineae isolates in Vietnam, emphasizing the need to investigate dermatophyte drug resistance and implement effective measures in clinical practice.

Species diversity within the Trichophyton mentagrophytes complex isolated from dermatophytosis in Hue City, Vietnam, was observed. Terbinafine-resistant T. indotineae isolates were detected for the first time in Vietnam, emphasizing the importance of implementing antifungal susceptibility testing to effectively manage and prevent the spread of resistant isolates.

Molecular epidemiology and antifungal susceptibility of dermatophytes and Candida isolates in superficial fungal infections at a grade A tertiary hospital in Northern China.

This study analyzed the prevalence and antifungal susceptibility of superficial fungal infections in 295 cases from 2019 to 2020 at a dermatology clinic. Dermatophytes were the predominant pathogens (69.5%), including Trichophytonrubrum, T. interdigitale, Microsporum canis, et al., followed by Candida spp. (29.5%), including Candidaalbicans, Ca. parapsilosis, and Ca. glabrata. The most common infections were onychomycosis (36.3%), tinea cruris (30.5%), and tinea corporis (18.6%). The distribution of SFI types showed variations based on gender, age, and season. Common antifungal agents, including terbinafine, voriconazole, ciclopiroxamine, amphotericin B, itraconazole, and ketoconazole have exhibited low minimum inhibitory concentrations against dermatophytes, especially terbinafine, which has been potent against superficial fungal infections caused by dermatophytes in the local area. Candida spp. strains were generally susceptible or classified as wild-type to 5-flucytosine and amphotericin B, with 92.0% being wild-type for itraconazole. However, resistance to fluconazole and voriconazole was observed in a small percentage of Ca. albicans and Ca. parapsilosis strains. The emergence of drug-resistant Candida underscores the importance of prudent antifungal use and continuous surveillance.

Our study analyzed 295 cases of superficial fungal infections in Taiyuan, located in Northern China. Dermatophytes and Candida spp. were primary pathogens, with varied susceptibilities to antifungals. Results deepen our understanding, emphasizing prudent drug use and surveillance.

Epidemiological profile of dermatophytes at the parasitology-mycology laboratory at Mohammed VI University Hospital in Oujda.

BACKGROUND: dermatophytoses are a current fungal infection, caused by keratinophilic fungi (dermatophytes) able to invade the nails, hair and skin of humans and animals. AIM: the aim of this study was to establish the epidemiological and mycological profile of dermatophytes isolated in the parasitology-mycology laboratory of the Mohammed VI University Hospital in Oujda. METHODS: this is a 48-month retrospective study from January 2019 to December 2022.The study includes samples taken or sent to our parasitology-mycology laboratory for mycological study. A direct examination and culture were performed on each biological specimen. Species identification was based on macroscopic and microscopic colony criteria. RESULTS: in the present report we reviewed 950 mycological samples. Dermatophytes were isolated in 505 (53.15%) cases. The most common infections were tinea unguium (n=353; 69.90%), followed by tinea corporis (n=123; 5.74%) and tinea capitis (n=29; 5.98%). Trichophyton rubrum was the most frequently incriminated species. CONCLUSION: dermatophytes are the most frequent mycoses in humans. They are generally benign and often develop in a chronic and frequently recurrent pattern. Mycological examination is essential. It confirms the fungal origin and isolates the species responsible, in order to identify the source of contamination and implement an appropriate treatment.

Dermatophytosis Caused by Trichophyton indotineae (Trichophyton mentagrophytes ITS Genotype VIII) in Sri Lanka.

Over the past few years, a recalcitrant dermatophytosis has been observed on the Indian subcontinent, including Sri Lanka, which has caused a major public health issue in the region. An emerging species, Trichophyton indotineae, first described as Trichophyton mentagrophytes ITS genotype VIII, is thought to be responsible for this fast-spreading, mostly terbinafine-resistant dermatophytosis. Recalcitrant dermatophytosis is a challenge to dermatologists, and knowing the causative species and antifungal sensitivity in the earlier stage of management would be invaluable. We report a case series of patients with dermatophytosis caused by T. indotineae in Sri Lanka. This is the first detection of this highly terbinafine-resistant strain in Sri Lanka, and existence of this species should be taken seriously by dermatologists and healthcare policymakers for better management of tinea infections and antifungal stewardship in the country.

Exploring the Co-occurrence of dermatophyte infection and ichthyosis: A report of 3 cases.

Dermatophyte infections frequently pose diagnostic challenges, especially when occurring alongside ichthyosis, a genetic skin disorder characterized by dry, thickened, scaly skin. This case series outlines three cases where dermatophyte infections overlapped with ichthyosis, emphasizing the complexities in clinical identification and differential diagnosis. Atypical clinical presentations in these cases led to initial misdiagnoses. Ichthyosis, a genetic skin disorder characterized by thickened and scaly skin, creates an environment conducive to dermatophyte settlement, complicating the diagnostic process. The cases highlight the importance of considering fungal infections, even when clinical features deviate from the expected course. A vigilant diagnostic approach, including mycological examinations, is crucial for accurate identification and timely management.

Asymptomatic colonization of stray dogs and domestic cats with Trichophyton mentagrophytes II in Northern Iran.

BACKGROUND: Despite changes in the epidemiology of dermatophyte infections, the incidence of fungal infections associated with Trichophyton species still remains high among dogs and cats. The objective of the present study was to isolate and characterize dermatophytes from dogs and cats in Iran. METHOD: From December 2022 to May 2023, skin and hair samples were collected from symptomatic and asymptomatic cats and dogs in Mazandaran, a northern province of Iran. The samples were then inoculated into Mycosel™ Agar. Dermatophyte isolates were identified by sequencing the internal transcribed spacer region. Antifungal susceptibility tests were conducted using the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI-M38-A3). RESULT: Of the 250 samples collected (from 200 dogs and 50 cats), 20 (from 19 dogs and one cat) (8.0 %) were positive for dermatophyte growth. Based on sequence and phylogenetic analysis, all isolates belonged to T. mentagrophytes II*. Of these positive samples, 14 (70.0 %), 3 (15.0 %), 2 (10.0 %), and 1 (2.0 %) were isolated from asymptomatic stray dogs, symptomatic stray dogs, symptomatic domestic dogs, and symptomatic cats, respectively. Luliconazole and terbinafine displayed potent activity against all T. mentagrophytes isolates, with Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values of 0.016 µg/ml. Miconazole and griseofulvin demonstrated higher MIC (1 and 8 µg/ml). CONCLUSION: The present study indicated that T. mentagrophytes II* asymptomatic carriage is frequent in stray dogs in Iran. The potential risk to public health needs to be evaluated However, T. mentagrophytes genotype VIII, considered as an endemic and emerging human pathogenic clone in several countries, was not detected during the present survey.

Diagnostic ability of Peptidase S8 gene in the Arthrodermataceae causing dermatophytoses: A metadata analysis.

An unambiguous identification of dermatophytes causing dermatophytoses is necessary for accurate clinical diagnosis and epidemiological implications. In the current taxonomy of the Arthrodermataceae, the etiological agents of dermatophytoses consist of seven genera and members of the genera Trichophyton are the most prevalent etiological agents at present. The genera Trichophyton consists of 16 species that are grouped as clades, but the species borderlines are not clearly delimited. The aim of the present study was to determine the discriminative power of subtilisin gene variants (SUB1-SUB12) in family Arthrodermataceae, particularly in Trichophyton. Partial and complete reads from 288 subtilisin gene sequences of 12 species were retrieved and a stringent filtering following two different approaches for analysis (probability of correct identification (PCI) and gene gap analysis) conducted to determine the uniqueness of the subtilisin gene subtypes. SUB1 with mean PCI value of 60% was the most suitable subtilisin subtype for specific detection of T.rubrum complex, however this subtype is not reported in members of T. mentagrophytes complex which is one of the most prevalent etiological agent at present. Hence, SUB7 with 40% PCI value was selected for testing its discriminative power in Trichophyton species. SUB7 specific PCR based detection of dermatophytes was tested for sensitivity and specificity. Sequences of SUB7 from 42 isolates and comparison with the ITS region showed that differences within the subtilisin gene can further be used to differentiate members of the T. mentagrophytes complex. Further, subtilisin cannot be used for the differentiation of T. benhamiae complex since all SUB subtypes show low PCI scores. Studies on the efficiency and limitations of the subtilisin gene as a diagnostic tool are currently limited. Our study provides information that will guide researchers in considering this gene for identifying dermatophytes causing dermatophytoses in human and animals.

Tinea faciei clinical characteristics, causative agents, treatments and outcomes; a retrospective study in Thailand.

BACKGROUND: Tinea faciei is a relatively uncommon dermatophyte infection. The studies, which included clinical forms, and isolated species of dermatophytes, are limited. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This retrospective study aims to determine the causative organism, clinical characteristics, treatments and outcomes of patients with tinea faciei attending the dermatologic clinic, Siriraj Hospital, from 1 January 2017 to 30 September 2021. Demographic data, clinical presentations, isolated dermatophyte species, treatments and outcomes were collected and analysed. RESULTS: A total of 151 tinea faciei cases were observed. Trichophyton rubrum (48.6%), Trichophyton mentagrophytes complex (22.2%) and Microsporum canis (18.1%) were common causative agents. Tinea faciei was commonly detected in females (64.9%) with a history of pets (54.6%). Clinical presentations often involved plaques and scales on the cheeks. Among patients with lesions on the cheek, mycological cure was observed significantly less often compared to those without cheek lesions. Patients with other concurrent skin or nail infections, a history of topical steroids and a history of previous fungal infection had a slightly longer duration of mycological cure than those without factors. Recurrent infection was found in 33.3%. Male, history of previous fungal infection, and lesions on the cheeks were significantly associated with recurrent infection. CONCLUSIONS: Fungal infection of the face was commonly found in women and patients with pets. The most common pathogen that caused tinea faciei was T. rubrum. Topical antifungal treatments could be used with favourable outcomes. The history of past infection and lesion on the cheeks should be carefully assessed to be vigilant for recurrent infection.

Epidemiological trends, antifungal drug susceptibility and SQLE point mutations in etiologic species of human dermatophytosis in Al-Diwaneyah, Iraq.

Dermatophytes show a wide geographic distribution and are the main causative agents of skin fungal infections in many regions of the world. Recently, their resistance to antifungal drugs has led to an obstacle to effective treatment. To address the lack of dermatophytosis data in Iraq, this study was designed to investigate the distribution and prevalence of dermatophytes in the human population and single point mutations in squalene epoxidase gene (SQLE) of terbinafine resistant isolates. The identification of 102 dermatophytes isolated from clinical human dermatophytosis was performed through morphological and microscopic characteristics followed by molecular analysis based on ITS and TEF-1α sequencing. Phylogeny was achieved through RAxML analysis. CLSI M38-A2 protocol was used to assess antifungal susceptibility of the isolates to four major antifungal drugs. Additionally, the presence of point mutations in SQLE gene, which are responsible for terbinafine resistance was investigated. Tinea corporis was the most prevalent clinical manifestation accounting for 37.24% of examined cases of dermatophytosis. Based on ITS, T. indotineae (50.98%), T. mentagrophytes (19.61%), and M. canis (29.41%) was identified as an etiologic species. T. indotineae and T. mentagrophytes strains were identified as T. interdigitale based on TEF-1α. Terbinafine showed the highest efficacy among the tested antifungal drugs. T. indotineae and T. mentagrophytes showed the highest resistance to antifungal drugs with MICs of 2-4 and 4 µg/mL, while M. canis was the most susceptible species. Three of T. indotineae isolates showed mutations in SQLE gene Phe397Leu substitution. A non-previously described point mutation, Phe311Leu was identified in T. indotineae and mutations Lys276Asn, Phe397Leu and Leu419Phe were diagnosed in T. mentagrophytes XVII. The results of mutation analysis showed that Phe397Leu was a destabilizing mutation; protein stability has decreased with variations in pH, and point mutations affected the interatomic interaction, resulting in bond disruption. These results could help to control the progression of disease effectively and make decisions regarding the selection of appropriate drugs for dermatophyte infections.

Epidemiology of Tinea Capitis Among School-Children in Dschang, Western Cameroon.

Data on the epidemiology of tinea capitis (TC), an infection of the scalp by dermatophytes, are scarce in Cameroon. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of TC among school-children in the Dschang Subdivision, Western Cameroon. A cross-sectional study was carried out in June 2021 in Dschang including pupils aged 5-13. First, a standardized questionnaire was administered to participant for the collection of sociodemographic data. Then, samples were collected and cultured onto Sabouraud-Chloramphenicol-Gentamicin Agar. The etiological agents were identified based on their morphological features and with MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry. A total of 1070 children were clinically examined and 108 (10.1%) children presented with TC lesions. The mean age of the 1070 participants was 8.3 ± 2.6 years (range: 5-13 years); 772 (72.2%) were males. The use of borehole water (OR = 0.01, 95%CI[0.001-0.03]), spring water (OR = 0.2, 95%CI[0.08-0.50]), rainwater (OR = 0.004, 95%CI[0.001-0.016]), and hairdressing salons visits (OR = 0.413, 95%CI[0.196-0.872]) were associated with a decreased TC risk in the multivariate logistic regression analysis. In contrast, sharing bed with siblings (OR = 4.48, 95%CI[2.095-9.60]) was associated with an increased TC risk in children. Among the 32 dermatophytes isolated in culture, Microsporum audouinii was the most frequent (43.8%), followed by Trichophyton rubrum (25.0%) and T. soudanense (25.0%). Microsporum canis and T. violaceum were both rarely isolated. Further studies are warranted to assess the association of TC with domestic water usage that has been highlighted in this study.

A survey of 701 cases of tinea faciei in Hangzhou, southeastern China, from 2018 to 2023.

BACKGROUND: Tinea faciei, a specific dermatophytosis that affects the glabrous skin of the face, not only causes physical discomfort but also leads to greater psychological distress. Tinea faciei is a public health concern. OBJECTIVES: To analyse the epidemiological characteristics, responsible dermatophyte species and clinical features of tinea faciei in Hangzhou. METHODS: Data were obtained from the Laboratory Information System of the Mycology Laboratory and Medical Information System at a hospital in Hangzhou. Isolates were identified based on their macroscopic appearance and microscopic morphology. RESULTS: Tinea faciei was diagnosed in 701 patients, involving 359 males and 342 females, aged between 2 months and 97 years. In total, 499 isolates (71.18%) were identified as Trichophyton rubrum. Anthropophilic isolates were identified in 297 (82.73%) males and 207 (60.53%) females (p < .01). Among patients with anthropophilic dermatophytes infection, 447 (88.69%) were adults. Zoophilic dermatophytes were isolated in 57 (15.88%) males and 130 (38.01%) females (p < .01), among whom 108 (57.75%) were children. CONCLUSIONS: Anthropophilic dermatophytes, especially T. rubrum, were the predominant cause of tinea faciei, while zoophilic dermatophytes were the most prevalent in children. Compared with men, women may be more susceptible to zoophilic dermatophytes.

Molecular Detection of Dermatophytes and Nondermatophytes in Onychomycosis in Antalya, Turkey.

BACKGROUND: Onychomycosis is a chronic nail infection, and dermatophytes, yeasts, and nondermatophytic molds may be the causative agents. This study aimed to determine the etiological agents of onychomycosis by using conventional and molecular methods. METHODS: Between June 2020 and July 2021, 37 patients with a presumptive diagnosis of onychomycosis and mycological evidence (culture and/or EUROArray Dermatomycosis assay) were included in the study. Organisms detected in cultured nail specimens were identified by combined phenotypic characteristics and by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS). An EUROarray Dermatomycosis assay was used for molecular detection of fungal pathogens. RESULTS: The EUROArray Dermatomycosis assay was positive for a single fungal target in 23 samples, and 14 samples were positive by culture. The most common pathogen was Trichophyton rubrum in both methods. Coinfection was detected in 14 samples by using molecular methods, and Trichophyton rubrum and Fusarium solani (9 samples) were the most common pathogens detected together. Trichophyton spp., nondermatophyte molds, and Candida spp. were detected in 33 (89.2%), 16 (43.2%), and 6 (16.2%) samples, respectively, when the two methods were evaluated together. CONCLUSIONS: Our results revealed that fungal culture allows the diagnosis of onychomycosis, but it is not as sensitive as the EUROArray Dermatomycosis test, especially in patients receiving antifungal therapy.

Dermatophytosis in domestic cats: Identification, and treatment in an Indian context.

The surge in domestic cat adoption across India, particularly the rising preference for high-pedigree cats, coupled with environmental factors, has resulted in increased incidence of dermatophytosis among feline companions. Despite this growing concern, there is a noticeable scarcity of studies in India delving into the etiological factors contributing to dermatophytosis in cats. This disease is a threat to animal health and carries public health significance, given that cats are recognized reservoir hosts for Microsporum canis, a common dermatophyte affecting humans and animals. This study endeavours to identify the dermatophytes affecting cats and establish a standardized therapeutic regimen while accounting for the local stigma surrounding the regular bathing of cats. The study involved the examination of 82 cats presenting dermatological lesions, when subjected to cultural examination in dermatophyte test medium revealed 36 afflicted with dermatophytes. Isolates were presumptively identified by staining using lactophenol cotton blue, Chicago sky blue 6B, and Calcofluor white stains. Molecular-level identification of the isolates was confirmed through PCR-RFLP, amplifying the Internal Transcribed Spacer Sequence of 16 s rDNA, followed by restriction digestion using the Mva1 enzyme. Among the thirty-six isolates, 29 were identified as M. canis, while the remaining 7 were M. gypseum. The cases were categorized into five groups and treated with Lime Sulphur dip, 4 % chlorhexidine shampoo, a shampoo containing 2 % miconazole and 4 % chlorhexidine, oral itraconazole alone, and a combination of oral itraconazole with lime-Sulphur dip. Statistical analysis revealed that the response was notably swifter with lime Sulphur dip when considering only topical therapy. Moreover, the mycological cure was most expeditious when combining Lime Sulphur dip with oral itraconazole. These findings underscore the pivotal role of topical biocides in feline dermatophytosis treatment, potentially reducing the reliance on specific antifungals and thereby contributing to the mitigation of antimicrobial resistance emergence.

Tinea capitis caused by Trichophyton tonsurans: An emerging disease in Argentina. / Tinea capitis por Trichophyton tonsurans: una enfermedad emergente en Argentina.

Tinea capitis is a dermatophytosis, which is more common in children. It is caused by dermatophytes that vary according to the region; the most frequently isolated dermatophyte in our setting is Microsporum canis. Given its anthropophilic nature, its dissemination via interpersonal transmission and through the use of hair care tools is very common. In the course of the past year, an increase has been reported in the incidence of a pathogen that was very rare in our setting: Trichophyton tonsurans. Here we describe a retrospective study of cases of tinea capitis caused by Trichophyton tonsurans identified between September 2021 and March 2023 in the Department of Pediatric Dermatology at a general hospital of the City of Buenos Aires.

La tinea capitis es una dermatofitosis, más frecuente en niños. Está causada por hongos dermatofitos que varían según la región; el más frecuentemente aislado en nuestro medio es el Microsporum canis. Dado su carácter antropofílico, la transmisión por vía interpersonal y mediante el uso de instrumentos de cuidado capilar es muy habitual. En el transcurso del último año, se ha reportado un incremento en la incidencia de un patógeno que era muy poco habitual en nuestro medio: el Trichophyton tonsurans. Presentamos un estudio retrospectivo de los casos de tinea capitis por Trichophyton tonsurans identificados en el período comprendido entre septiembre de 2021 y marzo de 2023 en la Sección de Dermatología Infantil de un hospital general de la Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires.