Factors leading to dermatophytosis

Hamideh Herizchi Qadim1, Farideh Golforoushan, Hamideh Azimi

  • 1Department of Dermatology, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.

Annals of Parasitology
|November 1, 2013
PubMed

Insights

Dry skin (xerosis) is the primary risk factor for tinea corporis fungal infections. Addressing this and other factors can prevent spread and reinfection of superficial skin conditions.

Area of Science:

  • Dermatology
  • Mycology
  • Epidemiology

Background:

  • Tinea infections, or dermatophytoses, are superficial fungal infections affecting keratinized tissues.
  • Tinea corporis specifically affects the skin, and understanding predisposing factors is crucial for management and prevention.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate predisposing factors for tinea corporis.
  • To identify key factors that contribute to the incidence and recurrence of superficial fungal skin infections.

Main Methods:

  • A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted.
  • Patients with confirmed tinea corporis via direct fungal smear at Sina Hospital, Tabriz, were enrolled.
  • Data collected included age, sex, occupation, and predisposing factors.

Main Results:

  • Out of 76 confirmed cases, 60.5% were male and 30.5% were female.
  • Tinea corporis was most prevalent in the third decade of life.
  • Dry skin (xerosis) was identified as the most significant predisposing factor, observed more frequently than diabetes (5.2%) or lymphoma.

Conclusions:

  • Xerosis is the predominant factor contributing to tinea corporis.
  • Management should focus on treating xerosis and other contributing factors to improve outcomes and prevent recurrence.
  • Simple patient education regarding skin care can enhance treatment efficacy for superficial fungal infections.

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