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Abstract:
The in vitro hair perforation test as described by Ajello and George, was applied to eight species of Chrysosporium and one species each of Microsporum and Trichophyton. Six of them were found to perforate hair while four were negative. Chr. keratinophilum, M. gypseum and Tr. vanbreuseghemii were able to perforate and degrade hair rapidly. The micromorphological changes were also described.
Insights
The in vitro hair perforation test revealed that most dermatophyte species can degrade hair. Chrysosporium keratinophilum, Microsporum gypseum, and Trichophyton vanbreuseghemii showed rapid hair perforation and degradation.
Area of Science:
- Medical Mycology
- Dermatology
Background:
- Dermatophytes are fungi that cause superficial infections by utilizing keratin.
- The hair perforation test is a key diagnostic tool in mycology.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the hair perforating and degrading capabilities of various Chrysosporium, Microsporum, and Trichophyton species.
- To characterize the micromorphological changes associated with fungal hair invasion.
Main Methods:
- Application of the in vitro hair perforation test (Ajello and George method).
- Inoculation of human hair fragments with eight Chrysosporium species and one each of Microsporum and Trichophyton.
- Microscopic examination for perforation and degradation.
Main Results:
- Six out of ten fungal species tested demonstrated hair perforation.
- Chrysosporium keratinophilum, Microsporum gypseum, and Trichophyton vanbreuseghemii exhibited rapid hair perforation and degradation.
- Distinct micromorphological changes were observed in perforated hair samples.
Conclusions:
- The hair perforation test is effective in differentiating dermatophyte species based on keratinolytic activity.
- Specific species like C. keratinophilum, M. gypseum, and T. vanbreuseghemii possess significant keratinase activity.