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Published on: March 25, 2016
[Dermatophyte infections in persons returning from the tropics]
1Wojew6dzki Specjalistyczny Szpital im. W. Biegańskiego w Lodzi 91-347 Lódź.
Wiadomosci Parazytologiczne
|August 5, 2006
Summary
Fungal infections, particularly dermatophytes, were common in travelers returning from the tropics between 1996-1997. Trichophyton species were the most prevalent fungal pathogens identified in these patients.
Area of Science:
- Medical Mycology
- Dermatology
- Infectious Diseases
Context:
- Mycological examinations were conducted on 367 individuals presenting with cutaneous lesions after tropical travel.
- Fungal infections were diagnosed in 141 (38.4%) of these patients during 1996-1997.
Purpose:
- To identify the prevalence and types of fungal infections, specifically dermatophytes, in travelers returning from tropical regions.
- To classify the etiological agents of fungal skin infections based on genus and species.
Summary:
- Of the 141 fungal infections, 68 (48.1%) were dermatophytes, 50 (35.6%) were moulds, and 23 (16.3%) were yeast-like fungi.
- Dermatophyte infections presented as single-focal (42.65%), bifocal (47.06%), or multifocal (10.29%).
- The most common dermatophyte genera identified were Trichophyton (54.4%), Microsporum (23.5%), and Epidermophyton (22.1%). Specific species included T. rubrum, T. mentagrophytes, M. canis, and E. floccosum.
Impact:
- This study highlights the significant burden of fungal skin infections among travelers returning from the tropics.
- Geographic origin influenced the type of dermatophyte isolated, with Microsporum species found in individuals from Africa and Southern Europe, and Trichophyton species from Asia and South America.
- Findings underscore the importance of considering tropical travel history in the diagnosis and management of fungal skin infections.
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