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Fungi causing dermatophytosis in Lagos, Nigeria
1Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, College of Medicine/Lagos University Teaching Hospital, Nigeria.
East African Medical Journal
|April 1, 1990
Summary
Microsporum species were the most common dermatophyte causing ringworm in Nigerian patients. Skin infections were most prevalent, particularly in adults over 20 years old.
Area of Science:
- Medical Mycology
- Dermatology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Ringworm, a superficial fungal infection, is caused by dermatophytes.
- Prevalence and etiological agents of ringworm can vary geographically.
- Understanding local fungal epidemiology is crucial for effective treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify dermatophyte species causing ringworm in Nigerian patients.
- To determine the prevalence of ringworm and affected body sites.
- To analyze age-specific infection rates.
Main Methods:
- Fungal isolates were obtained from patients with suspected ringworm.
- Identification of dermatophytes to the genus level (Trichophyton, Microsporum, Epidermophyton).
- Analysis of infection sites and patient age demographics.
Main Results:
- Dermatophytes were isolated from 41% of 395 patients.
- Microsporum species accounted for 74.1% of isolates.
- Skin infections (59.3%) were most common, followed by hair (27.2%) and nail (13.6%) infections.
- The highest isolation rate was in individuals aged 20 and above (68.5%).
Conclusions:
- Microsporum species are the predominant dermatophytes causing ringworm in this Nigerian cohort.
- Ringworm affects various body sites, with skin being most frequently involved.
- Adults represent the most affected age group for dermatophyte infections.