[Dermatophytoses in the Murcia region. Changes in the frequency of isolations in the last 22 years]

A Hernández-Gil1, C Brufau, A Peña

  • 1Servicio de Dermatología Médico-Quirúrgica y Venereología, HospitaProvincial San Juan de Dios, Murcia.

Insights

This study identified Trichophyton mentagrophytes as the most common cause of dermatophyte infections in South-Eastern Spain. Rabbits were found to be the primary animal reservoir for these fungal infections in the region.

Area of Science:

  • Mycology
  • Dermatology
  • Infectious Diseases

Context:

  • Dermatophytosis is a common superficial fungal infection.
  • Understanding regional variations in causative agents and reservoirs is crucial for effective public health strategies.
  • Previous studies in Spain have indicated different epidemiological patterns.

Purpose:

  • To investigate the clinical forms and etiological agents of dermatophytosis in a South-Eastern Spanish population.
  • To compare the findings with other Spanish regions and identify the primary animal reservoir.

Summary:

  • A study of 136 patients revealed diverse clinical presentations of dermatophytosis.
  • Trichophyton mentagrophytes was the most frequently isolated species.
  • Results align with regional data but differ from more distant areas, highlighting rabbits as the main animal reservoir in this locale.

Impact:

  • Provides region-specific epidemiological data on dermatophytosis in South-Eastern Spain.
  • Identifies rabbits as a significant reservoir, informing preventative measures and public health interventions.
  • Contributes to the understanding of the geographic distribution of dermatophyte species and their animal hosts.

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