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Tinea capitis caused by Trichophyton tonsurans: An emerging disease in Argentina
María F Russo1, Aldana Almassio1, María E Abad1
1Department of Pediatric Dermatology, Hospital de Agudos J. M. Ramos Mejía, City of Buenos Aires, Argentina.
Abstract:
Tinea capitis is a dermatophytosis, which is more common in children. It is caused by dermatophytes that vary according to the region; the most frequently isolated dermatophyte in our setting is Microsporum canis. Given its anthropophilic nature, its dissemination via interpersonal transmission and through the use of hair care tools is very common. In the course of the past year, an increase has been reported in the incidence of a pathogen that was very rare in our setting: Trichophyton tonsurans. Here we describe a retrospective study of cases of tinea capitis caused by Trichophyton tonsurans identified between September 2021 and March 2023 in the Department of Pediatric Dermatology at a general hospital of the City of Buenos Aires.
Insights
Tinea capitis, a fungal infection, is increasingly caused by Trichophyton tonsurans in Buenos Aires children. This study highlights the shift in common scalp ringworm pathogens, impacting pediatric dermatology.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Mycology
- Pediatric Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Tinea capitis is a common superficial fungal infection affecting children, primarily caused by dermatophytes.
- Microsporum canis has historically been the predominant pathogen in the study region.
- The transmission of tinea capitis occurs through direct contact and shared personal items.
Observation:
- An unusual increase in Tinea capitis cases attributed to Trichophyton tonsurans was observed.
- Trichophyton tonsurans, previously rare, emerged as a significant cause of tinea capitis.
- The study period spanned from September 2021 to March 2023.
Findings:
- Retrospective analysis identified a notable rise in Tinea capitis due to Trichophyton tonsurans.
- This finding indicates a potential epidemiological shift in causative agents of scalp ringworm.
- The cases were concentrated in the Pediatric Dermatology Department of a Buenos Aires hospital.
Implications:
- This shift necessitates updated diagnostic and treatment strategies for tinea capitis.
- Increased awareness among clinicians regarding Trichophyton tonsurans is crucial for effective management.
- Understanding regional pathogen prevalence is vital for public health interventions against fungal infections.
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