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Newer Topical Treatments in Skin and Nail Dermatophyte Infections
Kanika Sahni1, Sanjay Singh1, Sunil Dogra2
1Department of Dermatology and Venereology, AIIMS, New Delhi, India.
Abstract:
Dermatophytes are amongst the most common causative agents of fungal infections worldwide and widespread in the developing countries. Various studies have found the significantly rising trend of this infection in India especially in last 4-5 years. The growing epidemic of recurrent/chronic dermatophytosis has led to the need for newer antifungal agents and/or preparations. Furthermore, resistance to commonly used topical and oral antifungals has increased alarmingly. Significantly increasing resistance has led to state of anxiety in physicians and significant distress to the patients socially, emotionally, and financially. Newer formulations or newer derivatives of existing drug classes and few newer drug classes are being developed to tackle this menace. Other forms of local therapies including lasers and photodynamic therapy are still in developmental phase and still need to be optimized in terms of dosing schedule, frequency of use and duration of therapy. Moreover, cost of these therapies remained most important obstacle in developing countries like India. We are hereby reviewing the newer formulations of topical therapies and drugs/interventions in experimental phase.
Insights
Dermatophytosis, a fungal infection, is rising globally, especially in India. Growing antifungal resistance necessitates exploring new topical treatments and experimental therapies to combat this widespread health issue.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Dermatology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Dermatophytes cause common fungal infections globally, with a notable increase in India.
- Recurrent and chronic dermatophytosis is an escalating epidemic, driven by alarming antifungal resistance.
- Existing topical and oral antifungal treatments show reduced efficacy, causing patient distress and physician concern.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review emerging topical antifungal formulations.
- To explore novel drugs and interventions in the experimental phase for dermatophytosis.
- To address the need for effective treatments against resistant fungal infections.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent studies on antifungal therapies.
- Analysis of newer topical drug formulations and derivatives.
- Examination of experimental treatments like lasers and photodynamic therapy.
Main Results:
- Newer topical formulations and drug classes are under development to combat resistant dermatophytosis.
- Experimental therapies show promise but require optimization in dosing, frequency, and duration.
- Cost remains a significant barrier for advanced therapies in developing nations.
Conclusions:
- There is a critical need for novel antifungal strategies due to widespread resistance.
- Ongoing research focuses on developing advanced topical treatments and experimental interventions.
- Optimizing new therapies for efficacy, safety, and cost-effectiveness is crucial for global accessibility.
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