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Survey on Difficult-to-Treat Tinea: A Sub-Saharan African Snapshot
Agnes Bonny Kessy1, Ditte Marie L Saunte2,3,4,5, Daudi R Mavura2
1Regional Dermatology Training Centre, Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre, Moshi, Tanzania, abykalinga@gmail.com.
Dermatology (Basel, Switzerland)
|July 2, 2026
Summary
Healthcare providers in Africa face significant challenges in treating tinea infections due to poor diagnostic access and widespread antifungal resistance. Most surveyed providers reported treatment difficulties and relied on empirical antifungal use, highlighting critical gaps in care.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- Tinea infections present a major therapeutic challenge in many African nations.
- Limited diagnostic resources and rising antifungal resistance exacerbate treatment difficulties.
- This study addresses the need for understanding current management practices and challenges.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate treatment difficulties encountered by healthcare providers.
- To assess access to laboratory diagnostics for tinea infections.
- To investigate antifungal use patterns in ten African countries.
Main Methods:
- A survey was conducted among healthcare providers at a Continuing Medical Education (CME) meeting.
- Data collected included treatment response, laboratory access, antifungal agents used, and affected body sites.
- Descriptive analysis and cross-tabulations were employed to identify trends.
Main Results:
- A high response rate of 92.6% was achieved.
- 95.1% of respondents reported treatment difficulties with tinea infections.
- Over half (54.3%) lacked access to essential laboratory diagnostic services.
- Empirical use of multiple antifungal medications was prevalent (77.2%).
Conclusions:
- Significant diagnostic and management gaps exist for tinea infections in Africa.
- Limited laboratory access for dermatologists in Sub-Saharan Africa is a critical issue.
- Addressing these gaps is crucial for improving patient outcomes and combating antifungal resistance.
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