Age changes of foot microbiome estimated by microscopy method.

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Mycology
• Microbiology

Background:

• Tinea pedis research is extensive, yet the prevalence of dermatophyte fungi in the modern population and its relation to host age remains unclear.
• Understanding microbial flora on foot skin is crucial for diagnosing and managing skin conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the prevalence of dermatophyte fungi among different age groups.
• To investigate the correlation between fungal and bacterial presence, host age, and foot skin conditions.

Main Methods:

• Collected skin scales from the heel area of 99 volunteers aged 14-73.
• Assessed heel skin trouble severity using a point system.
• Utilized microscopy at 1750x magnification to identify fungal and bacterial morphotypes.

Main Results:

• Heel skin trouble significantly increased with age (r=0.954).
• Bacilli were present in all participants, increasing with age (r=0.821), while cocci were more abundant in younger individuals (r=-0.620).
• Dermatophyte occurrence rose with age (r=0.891), with high prevalence in young individuals and those without skin issues, suggesting they are part of normal foot flora.

Conclusions:

• Dermatophyte fungi are common on foot skin across all ages, not solely indicative of infection.
• Aging is associated with increased heel skin trouble and specific bacterial patterns.
• Further research may clarify the role of dermatophytes as commensals versus pathogens in tinea pedis.