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Dermatophyte infections in environmental contexts
Esther Segal1, Michael Frenkel1
1Department of Clinical Microbiology and Immunology, Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel.
Abstract:
Fungal dermal diseases caused by the molds of the Dermatophyte family are among the most frequent infectious diseases affecting quality of life. There are 3 attributed sources of infection by Dermatophytes:1) humans; 2) animals and 3) soil. Dermatophytes posses the ability to utilize keratin from human and animal tissues, or debris from dead animal sources found in soil, such as feathers, skin or nails. Hence, Dermatophytes are abundant in different ecological niches. All 3 groups can infect humans, causing dermatophytoses manifested in different clinical entities involving skin, hair or nails. The mode of infection of the Dermatophytes is via direct or indirect contact. Dermatophytes are found universally, however the relative prevalence of dermatophytoses caused by different Dermatophytes may vary in different geographic areas according to climatic conditions or lifestyle. Thus, studies in different geographic areas assessing the specific fungal etiology involved are of epidemiological relevance serving as baseline information for management of dermatophytoses at the local level. The present article will focus, mostly, on epidemiological data from published surveys conducted in different geographic/climatic areas analyzing the prevalence of specific Dermatophyte species in regard to gender, age, type of infection in context of environmental factors.
Insights
Fungal skin infections, or dermatophytoses, are common worldwide. This study reviews epidemiological data on the prevalence of specific Dermatophyte species across various regions, considering factors like climate and lifestyle.
Area of Science:
- Medical Mycology
- Epidemiology
- Dermatology
Background:
- Dermatophyte fungal infections are highly prevalent, significantly impacting quality of life.
- Infection sources include humans, animals, and soil, with Dermatophytes utilizing keratin from various tissues and debris.
- Dermatophytoses manifest in diverse clinical forms affecting skin, hair, and nails through direct or indirect contact.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the global epidemiological data of dermatophytoses.
- To investigate the prevalence of specific Dermatophyte species in different geographic and climatic areas.
- To correlate fungal etiology with factors such as gender, age, infection type, and environmental conditions.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of published surveys on dermatophytoses prevalence.
- Analysis of epidemiological data from diverse geographic regions.
- Examination of prevalence variations based on environmental factors and host demographics.
Main Results:
- Dermatophyte species prevalence varies geographically, influenced by climate and lifestyle.
- Epidemiological data provides crucial baseline information for local dermatophytoses management.
- Understanding regional prevalence aids in targeted prevention and treatment strategies.
Conclusions:
- Geographic and climatic factors significantly influence the prevalence of specific Dermatophyte species.
- Epidemiological surveillance is essential for effective management of fungal skin infections.
- Tailored public health strategies are needed based on regional dermatophytoses patterns.
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