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Molds in onychomycosis
R Ramani1, C R Srinivas, A Ramani
1Department of Microbiology, Skin and V.D., Kasturba Medical College, Karnataka, India.
Background:
Onychomycosis is a major cause of nail dystrophy. The causative organisms in onychomycosis are dermatophytes, Candida and molds. A variety of molds have been isolated from nails.
Methods:
Nail scrapings and clippings were collected from 100 cases and inoculated on slants containing SDA with cycloheximide 0.5 mg/mL, chloramphenicol 0.05 mg/mL, and SDA with chloramphenicol 0.05 mg/mL.
Results:
The culture positivity rate for molds was 22%. The predominant mold isolates were Aspergillus species (86.4%, Fusarium oxysporum (4.5%), Curvularia species (4.5%) and Penicillium species (4.5%).
Conclusion:
Primary invasion of nails by molds can cause onychomycosis.
Insights
Molds are a significant cause of onychomycosis, a nail disorder. This study found Aspergillus species to be the most common mold pathogen in nail infections.
Area of Science:
- Medical Mycology
- Dermatology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Onychomycosis is a prevalent nail dystrophy.
- Dermatophytes, Candida, and molds are common causative agents.
- Various mold species have been identified in nail infections.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence and types of molds causing onychomycosis.
- To identify the predominant mold species isolated from infected nails.
Main Methods:
- Nail samples were collected from 100 patients.
- Samples were cultured on specialized media (SDA with cycloheximide and chloramphenicol).
Main Results:
- Mold species were identified in 22% of the cultures.
- Aspergillus species were the most frequent isolates (86.4%).
- Other identified molds included Fusarium oxysporum, Curvularia species, and Penicillium species.
Conclusions:
- Molds can directly invade nails and cause onychomycosis.
- Aspergillus species are a primary mold pathogen in onychomycosis.