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Incidence of Tinea capitis in São Paulo, Brazil
M S Moraes1, P Godoy-Martínez, M M A Alchorne
1Department of Dermatology, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.
Insights
Tinea capitis, a fungal scalp infection, was diagnosed in 85% of 132 children in São Paulo, Brazil. Microsporum canis was the most common cause, predominantly affecting young males.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Mycology
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Tinea capitis is a common superficial fungal infection affecting the scalp.
- Understanding its incidence and causative agents is crucial for public health strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the incidence and etiological agents of tinea capitis in children in São Paulo, Brazil.
- To analyze the prevalence across different age groups and genders.
Main Methods:
- A 5-year prospective study (1996-2000) involving 4,500 children aged 0-15 years.
- Direct microscopy and fungal culture were performed on samples from 132 children with suspected scalp infections.
Main Results:
- Tinea capitis was confirmed in 112 children (85% prevalence).
- Males and children under 8 years old were most affected.
- Microsporum canis (70.5%) and Trichophyton tonsurans (23.2%) were the primary fungal agents identified.
Conclusions:
- Tinea capitis is a significant pediatric dermatological issue in São Paulo.
- Early diagnosis and targeted treatment are essential, especially for young male children.
Abstract:
To determine the incidence of tinea capitis in São Paulo, Brazil, an investigation was performed in Private and Public Pediatrics Service involving 4,500 children from 0 to 15 years old during 5 years (1996-2000). Samples were taken from 132 children with suspected fungal infection of the scalp, for direct microscopy and culture. Tinea of scalp was mycologically confirmed in 112 patients (85%). Males were more affected than females in all age groups. Children below 8 years old accounted for more than 75% of the occurrences. Only three cases of tinea capitis were diagnosed in children from 12 to 15 years of age. Tinea capitis was prevalent in 103 cases (91.96%); inflammatory kerion type lesions were diagnosed in 9 patients (8.04%). Microsporum canis (70.5%) and Trichophyton tonsurans (23.2%) were the most common agents followed by T. mentagrophytes (3.6%), M. gypseum (1.8%) and T. rubrum (0.9%).
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