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Study of onychomycosis in India
U Banerjee1, M Sethi, J S Pasricha
1Department of Microbiology and Dermatology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi.
Abstract:
Fungal agents causing onychomycosis in an Indian population were studied in a hospital based study. It revealed that onychomycosis is more common in adult males, and that finger nails were more often affected compared with toe nails. Occupation did not seem to be related to infection. Trichophyton rubrum was the commonest fungus isolated (49.3%) followed by Candida species (23.2%). Four morphological varieties of Tr. rubrum colonies were observed but the role of a particular variety in causing chronic infection could not be ascertained.
Insights
Onychomycosis, a fungal nail infection, is more prevalent in adult Indian males, frequently affecting fingernails. Trichophyton rubrum is the most common fungal agent identified in this population.
Area of Science:
- Medical Mycology
- Dermatology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Onychomycosis is a common fungal infection affecting nails.
- Understanding the prevalent fungal agents and demographic distribution is crucial for effective treatment strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify the fungal agents responsible for onychomycosis in an Indian population.
- To determine the epidemiological characteristics of onychomycosis, including affected sites and demographic factors.
Main Methods:
- A hospital-based study was conducted.
- Fungal cultures were performed to isolate and identify causative agents.
- Demographic data and clinical presentation were recorded.
Main Results:
- Onychomycosis was more common in adult males.
- Fingernails were more frequently infected than toenails.
- Trichophyton rubrum (49.3%) was the most frequently isolated fungus, followed by Candida species (23.2%).
- No clear association was found between occupation and infection.
Conclusions:
- Trichophyton rubrum is the predominant cause of onychomycosis in the studied Indian population.
- The findings highlight the importance of considering demographic factors and specific fungal agents in managing onychomycosis.