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

Summary

This study examined fungal skin infections caused by dermatophytes in a Moroccan hospital over four years, analyzing 950 samples. The researchers found that nail infections (onychomycosis) were most common, particularly in people over 50 years old, while scalp infections mainly affected children. The fungus Trichophyton rubrum was responsible for most infections, though Microsporum canis increasingly caused scalp infections, likely due to increased pet ownership in Morocco. The study emphasizes the importance of proper laboratory testing to identify the specific fungus and choose appropriate treatment.

Background

Dermatophytoses are common fungal infections caused by keratinophilic fungi capable of invading nails, hair, and superficial skin layers in humans and animals. These infections affect approximately 25% of the global population and represent a significant public health problem in all communities. The epidemiological profile varies by geographic region and is influenced by climate, lifestyle, socioeconomic conditions, and cultural practices.

Objective

The study aimed to establish the epidemiological and mycological profile of dermatophytes isolated at the parasitology-mycology laboratory of Mohammed VI University Hospital in Oujda, Morocco. This involved characterizing the distribution of dermatophyte species across different clinical forms and patient demographics.

Results

Dermatophytes were isolated in 505 cases (53.15% of samples). Onychomycosis was the most common form (69.90%), followed by tinea corporis (5.74%) and tinea capitis (5.98%). Trichophyton rubrum was the most frequently isolated species overall (89.7% in onychomycosis and tinea corporis), while Microsporum canis predominated in tinea capitis (65.52%). Infections primarily affected adults aged 52-61 years, except tinea capitis which predominantly affected children aged 2-11 years.

Conclusion

Dermatophytoses are the most frequent mycoses in humans, generally benign but often chronic and recurrent. Mycological examination is essential for confirming fungal origin, identifying the responsible species, and implementing appropriate treatment. The study confirms the predominance of T. rubrum and the increasing prevalence of M. canis in tinea capitis, reflecting socioeconomic development and changing living practices in Morocco.
  • Published in:Tunis Med,
  • Study Type:Retrospective Study,
  • Source: 10.62438/tunismed.v102i8.4862; PMID: 39129570
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