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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.
Mycoses
|July 1, 1990
Summary
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.