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[Onychomycosis by common non-dermatophyte moulds]
Martha Lucía Escobar1, Jaime Carmona-Fonseca
1Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Antioquia, Carrera 51D #62-29, piso 2, Medellín, Colombia. marthae17@hotmail.com
Revista Iberoamericana De Micologia
|June 27, 2003
Summary
Non-dermatophytic fungi caused a 211% increase in onychomycosis cases between 1990-2000. Fusarium and Nattrassia were the most common culprits, affecting adults who wear occlusive shoes and play sports.
Area of Science:
- Medical Mycology
- Epidemiology
- Dermatology
Context:
- The Medical Mycology Laboratory at the University of Antioquia, Colombia, analyzed 4621 patients with nail dystrophies from 1990 to 2000.
- A subset of 310 patients (7%) showed positive cultures for non-dermatophytic fungi in multiple inoculation sites.
Purpose:
- To investigate the epidemiological characteristics and prevalence of onychomycosis caused by non-dermatophytic fungi.
- To identify the primary fungal genera involved and the risk factors associated with infection.
Summary:
- Direct tests and cultures identified non-dermatophytic fungi in 12.4% of cases during the study period.
- A significant increase in annual cases (from 9 to 28) was observed, representing a 211% rise.
- Fusarium (50%) and Nattrassia (31%) were the predominant genera identified.
Impact:
- Identified key patient profiles: adults aged 31-40, who wear occlusive footwear and engage in sports, predisposing them to hyperhidrosis and subsequent onychomycosis.
- The study highlights the growing prevalence of non-dermatophytic fungal nail infections and informs diagnostic and treatment strategies.