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Summary
Tinea capitis, a fungal infection, is increasingly common in South India, particularly affecting young boys. Trichophyton violaceum is the most frequent cause, with oral griseofulvin showing satisfactory treatment outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Tinea capitis is a common superficial fungal infection affecting the scalp.
- Understanding the epidemiology and causative agents of Tinea capitis is crucial for effective public health strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the incidence and etiological agents of Tinea capitis in South India.
- To identify demographic patterns and clinical presentations of the infection.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective study was conducted over three years (November 1973 - October 1976) at a Government General Hospital in Madras.
- Data on patient demographics, clinical findings, and causative fungi were collected and analyzed.
- Isolates were identified, and treatment outcomes with oral griseofulvin were assessed.
Main Results:
- Tinea capitis incidence increased from 3.56% to 6.25% over the study period, suggesting endemicity.
- Male children aged 5-10 years were most commonly affected, but adults were also impacted.
- Trichophyton violaceum (73.94%) and Trichophyton tonsurans (13.16%) were the predominant etiological agents.
- Non-inflammatory lesions were more frequent than inflammatory ones.
- Oral griseofulvin was effective but caused side effects in a small number of patients.
Conclusions:
- Tinea capitis represents an endemic health concern in South India with a rising incidence.
- Trichophyton species, particularly T. violaceum, are the primary causative agents.
- Further research into strain-specific pathogenesis and griseofulvin's side effect profile is warranted.