Clinicomycological Analysis of Dermatophytosis and Antifungal Susceptibility: A Hospital-Based Study

Abstract

Dermatophytosis, or tinea infections, are a significant public health issue, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions like India. These fungal infections affect keratinized tissues and are caused by dermatophytes such as Trichophyton, Epidermophyton, and Microsporum. The growing prevalence of recurrent and chronic cases of dermatophytosis is a concern, primarily due to the emergence of antifungal resistance and improper treatment regimens. This study evaluated the clinical manifestations, mycological agents, and antifungal susceptibility patterns in patients presenting with dermatophytosis at a tertiary care hospital over a one-year period. Results revealed the predominance of Trichophyton mentagrophytes and high resistance to fluconazole, emphasizing the need for susceptibility-guided treatment to combat the rising antifungal resistance.