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Five-Year Retrospective Analysis of Superficial Fungal Infections: Insights from Hospital Experience
Nikoleta Đorđevski1, Elizabeta Ristanović1, Ana Ćirić2
1Institute of Microbiology, Medical Military Academy, Crnotravska 17, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia.
Abstract:
This study aimed to assess the incidence and distribution of dermatomycetes in patients at the Medical Military Academy (MMA) with suspected superficial skin infections over a five-year period (October 2017 to October 2022) and to analyze variations in fungal infections based on factors such as gender, body part, and time, particularly influenced by the COVID-19 pandemic. A total of 3993 samples were analyzed. Collected data were statistically analyzed with two tests. A total of 1048 samples were positive for fungal infections. Over the study period, Trichophyton mentagrophytes and Trichophyton rubrum were the predominant taxa, while Microsporum canis and Candida albicans were frequently observed. Statistical analysis indicated significant annual variations for T. mentagrophytes, T. rubrum, and M. canis, with monthly differences for T. mentagrophytes in June and August and M. canis in October and December. Gender-based analysis showed that T. rubrum and T. mentagrophytes were more common in males, while M. canis, C. albicans, Candida spp., and Geotrichum candidum were more prevalent in females. Analysis by body part revealed that Trichophyton rubrum and Microsporum canis showed significant differences between surface types. These findings can help improve diagnostic, therapeutic, and preventative strategies.
Insights
This study tracked fungal skin infections over five years, finding Trichophyton species most common. Variations were observed by gender, body part, and season, with potential COVID-19 pandemic influence.
Area of Science:
- Medical Mycology
- Dermatology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Superficial fungal skin infections pose a significant public health challenge.
- Understanding the epidemiology of dermatomycetes is crucial for effective management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the incidence and distribution of dermatomycetes in patients with suspected skin infections.
- To analyze epidemiological variations in fungal infections based on gender, body site, and time, including during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of 3993 patient samples collected over a five-year period (October 2017-October 2022).
- Statistical analysis of positive fungal infection data.
- Identification of predominant fungal species and their distribution patterns.
Main Results:
- 1048 samples (26.2%) were positive for fungal infections.
- Trichophyton mentagrophytes and Trichophyton rubrum were the most prevalent species.
- Significant variations in fungal distribution were noted across gender, body part, and time, with notable seasonal and pandemic-related trends.
Conclusions:
- The study highlights dynamic patterns in dermatomycetosis, influenced by various factors.
- Findings provide valuable insights for optimizing diagnostic, therapeutic, and preventive strategies against fungal skin infections.
