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[Tinea pedis in young sailors]
Abstract:
Results of a 3 year long-term study concerning tinea pedis in 240 18 year-old males are reported. Clinical monitoring revealed tinea pedis in 25% of the rural population (dermatologically manifest in 7%) and 66.6% of the examined seamen (manifest in 45%). The presence of Trichophyton interdigitale outweighted T. rubrum by 3-4:1. During the sailors' 1st year the relationship of the foregoing is 1:1-1.35; in the 2nd and 3rd years frequencies of 1:2.3, or rather 1:3.5, are observed. Epidemio-genetic factors of dermatophyte-host-environment are discussed for seafaring and non-seafaring conditions. The relationship between atopic dermatitis and athlete's foot is also considered.
Insights
A 3-year study found that 66.6% of young male seamen had tinea pedis (athlete's foot), significantly more than the rural population. Trichophyton interdigitale was the dominant fungal species, especially in later years of seafaring.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Mycology
- Epidemiology
Context:
- A longitudinal study investigated the prevalence and etiological agents of tinea pedis in young adult males.
- The study population included both rural inhabitants and seamen over a three-year period.
- Understanding athlete's foot prevalence in specific demographics like military personnel is crucial for public health.
Purpose:
- To determine the prevalence of tinea pedis in 18-year-old males from rural and seafaring populations.
- To identify the predominant fungal species causing tinea pedis in these groups.
- To explore the influence of seafaring and environmental factors on dermatophyte infections.
Summary:
- Clinical monitoring revealed tinea pedis in 25% of the rural population (7% manifest) and 66.6% of seamen (45% manifest).
- Trichophyton interdigitale was more prevalent than T. rubrum, with its prevalence increasing in seamen over the study years (from 1:1-1.35 to 1:3.5).
- Epidemio-genetic factors related to dermatophyte-host-environment interactions were analyzed for both seafaring and non-seafaring conditions, including a consideration of atopic dermatitis.
Impact:
- This research highlights a significantly higher incidence of athlete's foot among seamen, suggesting environmental or occupational risk factors.
- The shift in fungal species prevalence over time in seamen indicates potential adaptation or exposure dynamics.
- Findings contribute to understanding dermatophyte epidemiology and may inform targeted prevention strategies for at-risk populations.