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Aspergillus species as emerging causative agents of onychomycosis

S Nouripour-Sisakht1, H Mirhendi1, M R Shidfar1

  • 1Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, National Institute of Health Research, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.

Journal De Mycologie Medicale
|February 7, 2015
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Aspergillosis flavus is an emerging cause of non-dermatophytic toenail onychomycosis in Iran. Differentiating fungal nail infections is crucial for effective treatment.

Area of Science:

  • Mycology
  • Dermatology
  • Infectious Diseases

Background:

  • Onychomycosis is a prevalent nail infection caused by fungi.
  • Aspergillus species are increasingly implicated in toenail onychomycosis.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To delineate the species of Aspergillus causing onychomycosis.
  • To identify the prevalence of Aspergillus species in nail infections.

Main Methods:

  • Nail samples from suspected onychomycosis cases were cultured and microscopically examined.
  • Species identification utilized macro- and micro-morphology.
  • PCR amplification and beta-tubulin gene sequencing were employed for precise identification.

Main Results:

  • 20.2% of tested nails had onychomycosis; 33.2% were non-dermatophytic mold (NDM) onychomycosis.
  • Aspergillus species caused 29.2% of NDM onychomycosis cases.
  • Aspergillus flavus was the most common species (77.3%), primarily affecting toenails.

Conclusions:

  • Aspergillus flavus is a significant and emerging cause of saprophytic onychomycosis in Iran.
  • Distinguishing between dermatophytic and NDM infections is vital for appropriate therapeutic strategies.
Keywords:
AspergillusAspergillus flavusOnychomycoseOnychomycosis

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