Epidemiology of dermatophytosis in Bandar Abbas, Iran 2003-2004

Introduction: Dermatophytes are fungi that require keratin for growth. These fungi can cause skin, hair, and nail infections. Dermatophytes are spread by direct contact from other people (anthropophilic organisms), animals (zoophilic organisms), and soil (geophilic organisms), as well as indirectly from fomites. Dermatophyte infections can be readily diagnosed based on the history, physical examination, and potassium hydroxide (KOH) preparation. Variable clinical forms require different therapeutic approaches. The aim of this study was to analysis different clinical types of dermatophytosis and their etiologic agents as well. Methods: In this epidemiological study, a total of 402 clinically suspected cases of dermatomycoses ,from three different dermatology clinics in Bandar Abbas were examined for causative fungi during September 2003 to March 2005.. The patients were clinically examined by dermatologist. The causative organisms were identified by potassium hydroxide preparation and cultured in Sabouraud dextrose agar slants. Macroscopic appearances of colonies, microscopic examination through slide culture and biochemical tests were used to identify the fungi. The results were presented using descriptive statistics. Results: From total 402 suspected cases, 299 were culture positive. The most frequent clinical form of dermatophytosis, were Tinea cruris (37.5%), tinea capitis (22.5%), tinea corporis (20.7%). Male patients were infected mainly with tinea cruris, tinea capitis and tinea pedis, while female patients were infected mainly with tinea unguium. Nevertheless, the incidence of tinea manuum in males was the same as those in females. The non-inflammatory 'gray patch' variety was the most common clinical type. The most frequent isolated agents, were Trichophyton mentagrophytes (35.8%), T. rubrum (25.1%), and Epidermophyton fluccosum (22.4%) Conclusion: Dermatophyte infections are still a major health issue in the region. To plan strategies for infection control, epidemiological surveys are essential. This study revealed that the main etiologic fungi were anthropophilic. In order to diminish dermatophytosis, sanitary conditions should be improved.