T. indotineae: A New Emergent Fungal Pathogen Driven by Global Travel
Bryan Ortiz1, Florent Morio2, Kateryn Aguilar1
1Instituto de Investigaciones en Microbiología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Honduras, Tegucigalpa, Honduras.
Background:
The global spread of Trichophyton indotineae, a multidrug-resistant dermatophyte, remains insufficiently understood due to limited data on migration-associated dissemination and emerging local transmission. This study reviewed available evidence and integrated international migration statistics to assess the worldwide distribution of this pathogen and the influence of human mobility on its expansion.
Methods:
A systematic search in Scopus and PubMed (September 9, 2025) included epidemiological studies, case reports, and letters. Extracted variables comprised country of diagnosis, probable country of infection, and reported transmission scenarios. Migration data from the International Organization for Migration were incorporated to explore links between population movements and fungal spread, including indirect or undocumented routes.
Results:
Of the 224 publications identified, 89 met the inclusion criteria, reporting a total of 1215 cases outside India across 36 countries. Europe accounted for 545 cases, followed by North America with 90 cases and Oceania with 87 cases, while South America and Africa reported only sporadic detections. Fifty studies described imported infections, whereas 11 documented autochthonous transmission. Integrated analysis revealed three primary dissemination corridors: intra-Asian, Asia-Europe, and Asia-America.
Conclusions:
Trichophyton indotineae is now globally disseminated and strongly shaped by travel and migration. Coordinated international action, standardized diagnostics, harmonized treatment guidelines, and integrated surveillance are urgently required to mitigate its expanding public health impact worldwide.
Insights
The multidrug-resistant fungus Trichophyton indotineae has spread globally, driven by international travel and migration. Urgent coordinated action is needed to manage its public health impact.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Epidemiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Trichophyton indotineae, a multidrug-resistant dermatophyte, has a poorly understood global spread.
- Limited data exists on its migration-associated dissemination and local transmission patterns.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the worldwide distribution of Trichophyton indotineae.
- To investigate the influence of human mobility on the pathogen's expansion.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature search in Scopus and PubMed.
- Inclusion of epidemiological studies, case reports, and letters.
- Integration of International Organization for Migration data.
Main Results:
- 1215 cases reported in 36 countries outside India.
- Europe (545 cases) and North America (90 cases) are highly affected.
- Three primary dissemination corridors identified: intra-Asian, Asia-Europe, and Asia-America.
Conclusions:
- Trichophyton indotineae is now globally disseminated, significantly influenced by travel and migration.
- Coordinated international action, standardized diagnostics, and harmonized treatment guidelines are essential.
- Integrated surveillance is required to mitigate the expanding public health impact.
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