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Five-Year Retrospective Analysis of Superficial Fungal Infections: Insights from Hospital Experience

Summary

This study examined fungal skin infections in over 3,900 patients at a Serbian military hospital over five years. Researchers found that common fungi like Trichophyton mentagrophytes and T. rubrum caused most infections, with patterns varying by season, patient gender, and body location. Men were more likely to have foot infections while women showed more diverse fungal types. The findings suggest doctors should use more precise identification methods like MALDI-TOF testing to prescribe better treatments and help prevent recurring infections.

Background

Superficial fungal infections affect approximately 20-25% of people worldwide and are influenced by factors including socioeconomic status, geographic location, seasons, age, and gender. Dermatomycetes are the primary causative agents of superficial fungal infections. This study analyzes the epidemiology of such infections at a military hospital in Serbia.

Objective

To assess the incidence and distribution of dermatomycetes in patients with suspected superficial skin infections over a five-year period and to analyze variations based on gender, body part, and time, particularly influenced by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Results

Of 3993 samples, 1048 (26.2%) tested positive for fungal infections. Trichophyton mentagrophytes and T. rubrum were predominant (25.1% and 33.4% respectively), followed by Microsporum canis (11.2%) and Candida albicans (9.1%). Significant gender differences were observed, with T. rubrum and T. mentagrophytes more common in males, while M. canis and Candida spp. more prevalent in females. Seasonal variations were noted with higher T. mentagrophytes occurrence in June-August and M. canis in October-December.

Conclusion

This five-year analysis reveals distinct epidemiological patterns in superficial fungal infections with implications for diagnostic and therapeutic strategies. Routine use of MALDI-TOF for species-level identification is recommended, and clinicians should consider patient gender, seasonal variations, and infection site when managing these infections. Integration of molecular diagnostics and antifungal susceptibility testing is advised for improved clinical outcomes.
  • Published in:Journal of Fungi (Basel),
  • Study Type:Retrospective Cohort Study,
  • Source: PMID: 40985380, DOI: 10.3390/jof11070474
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