Trichophyton Research Articles

Isolation and Diagnosis of Dermatophytes of the Hand Tinea and Sensitivity Study to the Antifungals Griseofulvin

The study was conducted during the month of October 2022 until April 2023, with the aim of isolating and diagnosing the fungi that cause skin diseases from patients visiting the dermatology consultation affiliated with Salah al-Din General Hospital who were diagnosed as infected by dermatologists for the period from 1/6/2022 to 1/ 12/2023 For both sexes, aged between 10 and 60 years, by taking skin samples from the area of infection after wiping them with cotton saturated with 70% alcohol for the purpose of sterilization to get rid of any contaminants. Which was diagnosed clinically by a dermatologist in the dermatology consultation at Salah al-Din General Hospital and outpatient clinics. To evaluate the effectiveness of anti-griseofulvin in inhibiting the isolated fungi, the percentage of dermatophyte infections recorded by positive direct microscopic examination was only (88) patients, representing (88%) of the total number of patients. While the number of negative cases by negative direct microscopic examination was (59), or (59%). As for positive laboratory culture results, there were (79) patients, in the rate of (79%). While the number of negative cases by laboratory culture was (21), in the rate of (21%). The fungal genera that cause skin infections, such as Trychophyton and Microsporum, were isolated, with the genus Trichophyton being the most frequent, with 76 isolates belonging to several species, such as T. mentagrophytes, with a number of 29 isolates, then the fungus T. rubrum, with a number of isolates of 22, then the fungus T. terreste, with a number of isolates of 15, and then fungus T. schoenleinii, with a number of 10 isolates, while only three isolates of the M. canis type were recorded in the genus Microsporum. The results of the susceptibility test of the isolated fungi to Griseofulvin showed that the fungus T. mentagrophytes is more sensitive to the antichrysofulvin, as the average diameter of inhibition reached 32 mm compared to the control, followed by T. rubrum, which had an average diameter of inhibition of 16 mm compared to the control.

Clinicomycological Profile of Dermatophytosis in Tripura – An Institution Based Cross Sectional Study

Abstract Background: In a small state like Tripura, a surge in prevalence of superficial dermatophytosis has been observed from April to September among the population of both tribal and non-tribal groups having different lifestyle, different food habit, and different socioeconomic status. Studies from different region reveal varying pattern of etiological distribution of the disease. But till date no research study has been initiated in Tripura on clinicomycological profile of dermatophytosis. Objectives: This study was undertaken with the objectives to estimate the proportion of different fungal species associated with dermatophytosis among the patients attending Dermatology Outpatient Department of a Tertiary care hospital of Tripura and also to determine possible association of different clinical parameters with fungal species if any. Materials and Methods: A total of three hundred and ninety-one (391) new cases of dermatophytosis attending Dermatology Outpatient Department of a Tertiary care teaching hospital of Tripura were included in this study from June, 2021 to May, 2022. All the specimens were assessed by direct microscopic examination and in vitro culture. Fungi were identified on the basis of their macroscopic and microscopic features with the help of lactophenol cotton blue staining and urease test. Results: There was a male preponderance among cases and maximum patients belonged to 21-40 years age group. Trichophyton schoenleinii was the most common fungal species (52.1%) grown in culture followed by Trichophyton rubrum (26.9%). Conclusion: In contrast to previous study results from different parts of India, Trichophyton schoenleinii was the most common isolated fungal species from this part of northeast India, and Tinea corporis (41.3%) was the most prominent clinical manifestation of dermatophytosis.

Chrysosporium articulatum mimicking Trichophyton spp. infection in a cat: a case presentation and literature review

BackgroundDermatophytosis is a common skin infection of cats and many other animals. A reliable diagnosis is crucial because of the zoonotic potential of dermatophytes. The routine mycological diagnostic procedures for dermatophytosis are widely known, but in the case of some isolates, identification based on phenotypic characteristics may be incorrect. Infections caused by Chrysosporium spp. are usually described in reptiles, but in other animals they are uncommon.Case presentationThis study presents a description of a cat with dermatological lesions, that was mistakenly diagnosed with Trichophyton spp. dermatophytosis. Clinical material for mycological examination was collected from alopecic areas on the back of the neck, the ventral abdomen, and the hindlimbs. The initial identification based on phenotypic properties indicated Trichophyton spp. The result of the MALDI-ToF MS allowed the exclusion of the Trichophyton genus. Ultimately, the correct identification as Chrysosporium articulatum was obtained based on the sequencing of ribosomal genes.ConclusionsInterpretation of the results of the mycological examination of samples collected from animals’ skin or hair shafts is always challenging. Thus, careful consideration of the primary cause of the clinical lesions observed on the skin is mandatory, and the culture results are worth supporting by molecular methods.

Production of Lipopeptide Biosurfactant Using Wastewater from Parboiled Paddy Rice and Evaluation of Antifungal Property of the Biosurfactant Against Two Dermatophyte Fungi.

A previously isolated lipopeptide biosurfactant-producing bacterium Bacillus licheniformis SCV1 was investigated for the production of the biosurfactant using wastewater from parboiled paddy rice. The biosurfactant thus produced was evaluated for its antifungal property against dermatophyte fungi Trichophyton ajelloi and Microsporum fulvum. Results revealed that the bacterial strain reduced surface tension of the media from 56.16 ± 1 mN/m to 35 ± 0.9 mN/m within 12h, which further shrank to 29.3 ± 1 mN/m in 24h of incubation. The yield of the biosurfactant was 3.15 ± 0.25g/L at 48h of incubation. The obtained biosurfactant exhibited efficient emulsifying activity against a wide range of hydrophobic substrates such as crude oil, olive oil, engine oil, and kerosene oil used in the study. The critical micelle concentration of the biosurfactant was found to be 80mg/L. Structural characterization using FT-IR and TLC revealed that the biosurfactant produced by the strain in the wastewater is a lipopeptide consisting of surfactin and iturin. LCMS analysis revealed that the surfactin homologs range from C12 to C17-surfactin while the iturin contains C13 to C17-iturin homologs. It also revealed an in vitro study that the biosurfactant has antifungal properties against dermatophyte fungi Trichophyton ajelloi and Microsporum fulvum. Microscopic observation of the hyphae of the treated dermatophyte revealed disruption and fissure of the mycelia. The chemical composition of the wastewater revealed that it contains adequate nutritional composition and micronutrients to support bacterial growth. This is the first report that the wastewater of parboiled paddy could be used as a low-cost substrate for the production of lipopeptide biosurfactant, and the biosurfactant could be used for preventing dermatophytes fungi.

Comparative Analysis of Imidazole and Urtica dioica Emulsions in the Management of Dermatophytic Infections

This study explores the epidemiological distribution and antifungal efficacy of treatments against common dermatophytic infections, which predominantly include species from the genera Trichophyton, Microsporum, and Epidermophyton. These infections are significant due to their prevalence and the challenge posed by recurrence and resistance. Between January and September 2022, 35 fungal samples were collected from a dermatological clinic and analyzed using various growth media. Our research focused on evaluating the antifungal effectiveness of a synthetic imidazole emulsion (CSI), an antibiotic, and a natural emulsion from Urtica dioica (CSP). Results revealed that CSI and antibiotic treatments were significantly more effective across all tested species compared to CSP, with CSI often showing superior or comparable efficacy to antibiotics. The findings underscore the robust antifungal properties of imidazole derivatives and suggest a potential limitation in the therapeutic utility of U. dioica extracts. The study highlights the need for continued exploration of innovative treatments and the development of effective management strategies for fungal infections, considering the variance in species prevalence and treatment response.

Isolation And Diagnosis Of Skin Fungi That Causes Tinea Capitis In The Children

One hundred clinical samples of hair and scalp flakes were collected for children with tinea capitis aged from 1 year to 12 years from the dermatology consultant affiliated with Tikrit Teaching Hospital and outpatient clinics, with the aim of isolating the pathogenic fungi that cause tinea capitis and diagnosing them in children. Out of the total, 77 samples were found in the laboratory culture, while the findings of the direct microscopic examination indicated the presence of 55 samples. Several dermatophyte species from the genera Trichophyton and Microsporum were identified. T. mentagrophytes was the most prevalent with 18 isolates (23%), followed by T. violaceum and T. rubrum, each with 12 isolates (15%). Next, there were 10 isolates of the fungus T. schoenleinii (13%), compared to 4 isolates (10%) of each of the two species of fungus, T. tonsurans and T. verrucosum. While fungi belonging to the genus Microsporum were isolated at a rate of 10 isolates (13%) of the type M. canis, while 7 isolates of the M. gypsum type were isolated (9%). The incidence of tinea capitis among was greater in men than in women., as the number of infected males was 62 (62%), and females were 38 (38%) infected out of the total number. Regarding age groupings, 20% of children between the ages of one and four have head ringworm. The infection rate for children aged 5-8 was 32%, and the highest risk of infection was for those aged 9-12, who were at risk for 48%. It was also found that the rate of infection with the fungi that cause tinea capitis in the children from whom the samples were taken was high among patients coming from rural areas, at 80%, compared to patients coming from urban areas, at 20%.

Antifungal Potency of Some Antifungal Chemotherapeutics and Antidandruff Solutions against Dermatophytic Flora from Local Hairdressers’ Tools in Awka, Nigeria

Dermatophytes produce spores that can survive for a long time on fomites such as hairdressing tools (combs, scissors, clippers and hairpins). These fomites intend serve in the transmission of dermatophytosis. This study was aimed at evaluating and comparing the antifungal efficacy of some antifungal chemotherapeutics and antidandruff solutions against dermatophytic flora of hairdressers’ tools in Eke-Awka Market in Awka, Anambra State, Nigeria. A total of forty-five (45) samples were collected by swabbing the hairdressing tools of the local hair dressers using sterile swab sticks. The antifungal drugs (Ketoconazole, Miconazole and Griseofulvin) and the antidandruff solutions (Shampoo and Conditioner) were also bought from Eke-Awka Market. The samples where inoculated into sterile Sabouraud Dextrose Broth base in test tubes and incubated at 25-27ºC for 5-14 days. After incubation, the test tubes with visually observed growth (turbidity) were subsequently plated out by streaking on freshly prepared Sabouraud Dextrose Agar supplemented with Chloramphenicol (50µg/ml) and incubated at 25°C for up to 7-14 days. Identification was done using standard methods. Agar well diffusion method was employed for the in vitro antifungal susceptibility testing using different concentrations of both the antifungal drugs and antidandruff solutions obtained using double fold serial dilutions. Twenty Four (24) dermatophytes were isolated and identified. The isolates included Microsporum ferrugineum 6 (25%), Microsporum gypseum 3 (12.5%), Micosporum audouinii 6 (25%), Trichophyton schoenleinii 5 (20.8%) and Trichophyton mentagrophytes 4 (16.7%). The percentage susceptibility pattern of the isolates showed that 60℅ of the isolates were susceptible to Ketoconazole, 40℅ respectively susceptible and susceptible doze dependent to Miconazole and 100℅ resistant to Griseofulvin. For the antidandruff solutions, 20℅ of the isolates were susceptible to hair shampoo while 100℅ were resistant to hair conditioner. The results of this study showed that dermatophytes are prevalent on the tools used by local hair dressers and also that the antifungal drugs had better activity on the isolates than the antidandruff solutions used. Also, based on this study, ketoconazole is recommended for dermatophytosis. There is therefore need to educate the populace on the health hazards associated with sharing local hair making tools and the need for clients to have their personal hair making tools.

Antifungal Activity of Neem Leaf Extract With Eucalyptus citriodora Oil and Cymbopogon martini Oil Against Tinea Capitis: An In-Vitro Evaluation.

Introduction Tinea capitis, often known as ringworm of the scalp, is a fungal infection that affects the scalp, eyelashes, and eyebrows. It is generally caused by dermatophytes from the genera Trichophyton and Microsporum. Trichophyton tonsurans and Microsporum canis are the main etiological agents responsible for most of the cases of tinea capitis globally. Tinea capitis commonly manifests as itchy, scaly patches of hair loss. Tinea capitis is the prevailing dermatophyte illness among children globally. Methods An in-vitroevaluation study was conducted to assess the antifungal properties of ethanolic extracts of neem leaves and the oils of Eucalyptus citriodora and Cymbopogon martini, both individually and in combination. The agar-well diffusion method and the M38-A2 microbroth dilution method were employed to evaluate the antifungal efficacy against pathogenic dermatophyte strains, namely Microsporum canis and Trichophyton tonsurans. The fully mature green leaves were treated with ethanol to make the neem leaf extract. Additionally, high-performance liquid chromatographic analysis was carried out to determine the contents of the terpenoids. Fluconazole, an antifungal drug, is used as a standard. Results The findings demonstrated an overall inhibition of the growth of dermatophytes at a minimal inhibitory concentration of 187.5 and 375 μg/ml for neem leaf extractand 0.625 to 2.5 μl/ml for selected herbal oils,whereas it was0.25μg/mland 0.50 μg/ml forpositive controlagainstMicrosporum canisandTrichophyton tonsurans,respectively. Conclusion The phytochemical investigation of theethanolic extracts in neem leaves revealed the presence of terpenoids, which are known for their significant biological activity. The study's findings demonstrated the therapeutic capabilities of neem leaf extract in combination with the oils of Eucalyptus citriodora and Cymbopogon martini for managing the tinea capitis infection. A broader and improved antifungal spectrum was seen when neem leaf extract and oils were combined. Therefore, it can be developed into a suitable formulation for the management of tinea capitis.

Biological and physico-chemical properties of the soil in an acidified environment influenced by previous mining activities at the Šobov locality (SLOVAKIA)

More than 20 years after remedial measures were carried out, six plots (Š1 – Š6) at the Šobov locality were examined in more detail. From a pedological viewpoint, the physico-chemical differences of the soils in these areas are not the result of pedogenesis. This is the effect of extremely acidic mineralised solutions that have leaked from or are still leaking from the heap at the site. The plant community here is most often poor to weakly developed with acidophilic vegetation (Š1, Š2, Š5), without vegetation (Š4) or with dense species-rich vegetation (Š3, Š6). Saprotrophic microscopic fungi of the phylum Zygomycota are notably suppressed and their diversity is low. Species of the genera Absidia and Zygorhynchus were found most often. In contrast, the diversity of the phylum Ascomycota is notably high. The genera Penicillium (35 species), Aspergillus (7 species) and Trichoderma (5 species) are dominantly represented. Species of microscopic filamentous fungi in every soil sample that did not occur in the other samples were also recorded; i.e. they form the specific soil mycobiome of the given location. From the 15 types of keratinophilic fungi, the most commonly occurring were Purpureocillium lilacinum and Keithomyces carneus. Keratinolytic properties were recorded only in the species Trichophyton ajelloi. Soil reaction is the most important ecological factor that influences the biological properties of soils.

Prevalence of Tinea capitis in Schoolchildren in Three Villages of Woleu-Ntem Province Haut Ntem Department, Gabon

Introduction: Tinea capitis is a benign alopecising fungal infection mainly affecting schoolchildren with a tendency to spontaneous healing at puberty, and caused by dermatophytes. Objective: to determine the prevalence of Tinea capitis in schoolchildren in the Haut Ntem department. Materials and Methods: This was a descriptive cross-sectional study conducted from November 11, 2021 to April 7, 2022 in 3 villages in the Haut Ntem department. The ringworm lesions were taken from schoolchildren head using a scalpel and collected in a sterile Petri dish. Each sample was examined directly and cultured on Sabouraud Chloramphenicol Actidione medium. Tinea capitis was diagnosed if either direct examination or culture was positive. Results: Among the 128 children, included, median age was 9 years, Tinea capitis with small plaques (66.4%) were more frequent than those with large plaques (33.6%). The frequency of Tinea capitis was higher on direct examination (23.6%) than on culture (9.4%). The age group most affected by both direct examination and culture was [6-9 years] (p=0.27). After culture, Tinea capitis of the scalp was more frequent in Gabon-Ville (41.7%); whereas its frequency (25.0%) was similar in Akok and Gabon-Ville on direct examination. Endothrix parasitism was significantly more frequent (p<0.0001). Tinea capitis was mainly due to the Trichophyton genus (100%, p<0.0001). Conclusion: Tinea capitis are a public health problem in rural Gabon. They are dominated by small-plate ringworm caused by fungi of the Trichophyton genus.

ЧУВСТВИТЕЛЬНОСТЬ ВОЗБУДИТЕЛЕЙ ДЕРМАТОФИТИЙ К ПРОТИВОГРИБКОВЫМ СРЕДСТВАМ, АНТИСЕПТИКАМ И ДЕЗИНФЕКТАНТАМ

Dermatophytes form the group of fungal pathogens of humans, which includes 43 species, of which the most important representatives are the genera Trichophyton and Microsporum. In recent years, patients with the established diagnoses of “mycosis pedis“, "skin mycosis of the palms“ and "onychomycosis”, and associations of dermatophytes and moulds as well as dermatophytes as an aetiological factor in mixed infections and yeast-like fungi often play a role. The main objective of the current study was to determine the susceptibility of dermatophytosis pathogens (Trichophyton spp., Microsporum spp.) isolated from samples of biological from patients with mycoses to modern antifungals, antiseptics and disinfectants. Within the framework of this study, 142 clinical isolates of dermatophytes identified as Trichophyton spp. (n=68) and Microsporum spp. (n=74) were obtained from patients with diagnoses of "B35.3 Mycosis of the feet", "B35.0 Microsporia". It was found that the most active antifungal agents against clinical isolates of dermatophytes are itraconazole, terbinafine and amphotericin B. Among the studied clinical isolates of Trichophyton spp. in Microsporum spp. conditionally resistant strains to the studied antimycotics have been identified. Most of the studied clinical isolates of dermatophytes were high sensitive to antiseptics based on iodine, fucorcinol, undecylenic and boric acids. Disinfectants based on aldehydes, guanidine derivatives, triamines, and glycolic acid showed the greatest activity against clinical isolates of dermatophytes. Based on our data, preference should be given to amphotericin B, itraconazole and terbinafine-based drugs when prescribing ethiotropic therapy for patients with dermatomycosis. It is advisable to use antipseptics and disinfectants for dermatomycosis, taking into account the sensitivity of micromycetes to them.

Risk Factors Associated with Onychomycosis in Patients Attending Dermatology Units of Some Hospitals in Benue State, Nigeria

Onychomycosis is caused by different organisms especially the genus Trichophyton responsible for fungal nail infection. If left untreated, infection can spread to every nail and over time, the nails become thick, brittle, and ingrown causing pain and discomfort. To investigate the risk factors associated with onychomycosis in patients attending some hospitals within Benue state. A total of 384 finger and toenail samples were collected, disinfected, and subjected to laboratory examination using standard microbiological procedures. Some risk factors for onychomycosis including age, occupation, gender, diabetes mellitus condition, household contacts with animals, use of occlusive footwears, obesity, immune status, family history of onychomycosis, exposure to humid environments among others were investigated using structured questionnaire. The logistic regression for multivariate analysis was further used to identify the relationship between risk factors and onychomycosis. From the 384 samples collected, 226 fungal species were isolated from culture of toeand fingernails samples. Tinea rubrum was identified in159 (70.36%) followed by As per gillusspp., 30 (13.27%), Candida (Yeast), 19 (8.41%), Trichophytoninterdigitale,11 (4.87%) and Epidermophy tonfloc cosum was8 (3.54%). Age was statistically significant toony chomycos is with a positive association (OR=3.06, P=0.02; ≤0.05), while gender (OR=0.85, P=0.45>0.05)and occupation was not statistically significant (OR=1.21, P=0.66; >0.05). Use of occlusive footwear, keeping of long nails, and wearing used shoes showed statistically significant associations with onychomycosis. Individuals who engaged in the afore mentioned risk factors had high odds ratio (39.0, 5.95 and 1.26 respectively). Diabetes mellitus condition, trauma/damage to nails, nail psoriasis, obesity, and immunosuppression also showed statistically significant associations with onychomycosis. Odds ratio was (1.27, 1.86, 4.12, 1.05 and 3.14) respectively. Onychomycosis remains the most common nail disorder with a significant burden. There is need for prevention through practice of good personal hygiene and prescribed treatment of onychomycosis as it can have a considerable impact on patients’ quality of life.

Isolation, Identification of Bacteria and Fungi and FTIR and Proximate Analysis of Cassava Flakes (Garri) in Dutsin-Ma Markets

Garri is a staple food made from cassava tuber that is consumed in many homes across Nigeria and other West Africa countries. This study isolated, identified bacteria and fungi and Furrier Transformed Infrared Spectrometer (FTIR) and proximate analysis of garri in Dutsin-Ma markets. Nine garri samples (smooth white garri, yellow graveled garri and yellow garri) were obtained in Dutsin-Ma Town, from three different markets: Wednesday, Abuja Road and Tsamiya markets respectively. The microbial load of the samples was determined using pour plate technique and the isolates were identified using conventional method. The bacteria colony count was done and the bacteria were identified using gram staining and biochemical test. Three bacteria species were isolated; Klebsiella pneumonia (44.4%), Staphylococcus aureus (88.9%) and Bacillus spp (11.1%) and Twelve Fungi: Aspergillus spp (33.3%), Colletotrichum coccoides (11.1%), Histoplasma capsulatum (11.1%), Trichophyton schenlenii (11.1%) Trichomonas equinum (11.1%), Trichophyton equinum (11.1%), Balassezia baillon (11.1%), Coniochaeta haffmannii (11.1%), Cryptococcus spp (11.1%), Microsporidium (11.1%) and Rhizopus spp (11.1%) in all the samples. The FTIR of Smooth white garri (Sample A) shows five (5) peaks, Yellow gravel (Sample B) show five (5) peaks and the yellow garri (Sample C) show eight (8) peaks indicate indicating different wave number, intensity and compound The proximate analysis result shows the compositions for garri. The Moisture content recorded showed higher content in yellow garri (7.31%) while white garri is (5.98%). The presence of these bacteria and fungi in all the garri samples indicate a serious threat to the health of consumers.

Characterization and antifungal susceptibility of <i>Trichophyton mentagrophytes</i> isolated from a goat presented with severe dermatophytosis in Zaria, Nigeria

Dermatophytosis is a contagious skin disease affecting domestic and wild animals with considerable zoonotic significance. The disease is caused by fungi known as dermatophytes in the genera Trichophyton, Microsporum and Epidermophyton. A goat was observed with circumscribed alopecic, highly inflammatory, thickly crusted skin lesions on the head region, especially around the eyes. Skin scraping, including hair pullouts, was aseptically obtained and processed for direct examination, isolation and microscopic identification of etiologic agent and supplemented with urease test. The isolate was tested for its susceptibility to fluconazole, griseofulvin, itraconazol and ketoconazole. Direct examination revealed hyaline, septate hyphae in skin scales and chains of endothrix spores within hair shafts, suggesting Trichophyton infection. Colonies on Sabouraud’s dextrose agar were white, flat and granular. Microscopic examination of the isolate revealed many oval micro-conidia arranged in grapelike clusters with multi-septate, club- shaped, thin, and smooth-walled macroconidia typical of Trichophyton mentagrophytes. The isolate was urease-positive and sensitive to itraconazole and ketoconazole but resistant to fluconazole and griseofulvin. It was concluded that T. mentagrophytes was the cause of the severe skin lesions in the goat. The need to perform antifungal susceptibility testing on dermatophytes isolated from clinical specimens for effective management of dermatophytosis was emphasized.

Keratinolytic activity of pigmenting and non-pigmenting soils strains of Trichophyton ajelloi

The aim of the study was to evaluate the keratinolytic activity of 37 Trichophyton ajelloi strains, both pigmenting and non–pigmenting, isolated from loamy soil and chernozem, and to identify strains with the highest efficiency of converting feather waste into easily assimilable forms of nitrogen and sulfur for plants. The study showed that among Trichophyton ajelloi strains isolated from loamy soil, pigmenting strains were more capable of biodegrading native feather keratin, while among the strains isolated from chernozem, non–pigmenting strains showed better abilities. The keratinolytic activity, as measured by feather weight loss after 42 days of culture, was on average higher in Trichophyton ajelloi strains isolated from loamy soil compared to those from chernozem. Extracellular keratinase activity, as well as release of soluble proteins and peptides in cultures of Trichophyton ajelloi strains isolated from loamy soil and chernozem increased throughout the experiment. Protease activity was high during the first 7 days of the experiment and increased again from day 28 of culture. The increase in the pH of the culture fluids was associated with the release of ammonium ions. The maximum release of ammonium and sulfate ions occurred on day 21 of culture. Three pigment–producing strains (No. III, XII, and XIV/XV) were among the most active in releasing large amounts of ammonium and sulfate ions. The biodegradation of feather waste by Trichophyton ajelloi strains can be used for the production of fertilizers suitable for the cultivation of plants, particularly those with high sulfur requirements.

Molecular typing of a collection of Iranian clinical Trichophyton tonsurans isolates based on the non-transcribed spacer region of rDNA and antifungal susceptibility testing of the species.

Wrestling, considered the national sport of Iran, has gained immense popularity among Iranians. Wrestlers frequently encounter skin conditions, with dermatophyte fungal infections, particularly tinea gladiatorum (TG), being a common issue. TG, caused by the Trichophyton genus, has emerged as a major health concern for wrestlers and other contact sport athletes worldwide. This study aimed to assess the genotypic diversity and antifungal susceptibility of Trichophyton tonsurans isolates responsible for TG in Iranian wrestlers from Mazandaran province, northern Iran. A total of 60 clinical T. tonsurans isolates collected from various cities in Mazandaran, were included in the study. The isolates were identified through PCR-restriction fragment length polymorphism and sequencing methods. Genomic DNA was extracted from these isolates, and the non-transcribed spacer (NTS) region of ribosomal RNA (rRNA) was targeted for genotyping using newly designed primers. Haplotype analysis was performed to explore genetic diversity, and antifungal susceptibility to terbinafine (TRB) and itraconazole (ITC) was assessed. The results revealed five distinct NTS types: NTS-I, NTS-II, NTS-III, NTS-IV and NTS-V, with NTS-IV being the most prevalent. The distribution of NTS types varied across different cities, suggesting potential transmission patterns among wrestlers. Antifungal susceptibility testing showed that all isolates were susceptible to TRB, while one isolate demonstrated resistance to ITC. Genotypic diversity was not correlated with antifungal susceptibility, emphasising the importance of monitoring susceptibility to ensure effective treatment. Haplotype analysis highlighted significant genetic diversity among the T. tonsurans isolates. This diversity may be attributed to factors such as human-to-human transmission, geographic location and lifestyle changes. The study's findings underscore the need for comprehensive genotypic analysis to understand the epidemiology and evolution of T. tonsurans infections in athletes. In conclusion, this study provides valuable insights into the genotypic diversity and antifungal susceptibility of T. tonsurans isolates causing TG in Iranian wrestlers. The presence of multiple NTS types and varying susceptibility patterns highlights the complexity of T. tonsurans infections in this population. Further research is warranted to track the transmission routes and genetic evolution of T. tonsurans strains among wrestlers and develop effective control measures.

Tinea Favosa: Negligence and Misdiagnosis in Three Cases in Shiraz During 2021 - 2022

Introduction: Tinea favosa, a dermatophytic infection primarily caused by Trichophyton schoenleinii, remains a notable dermatological concern. It is characterized clinically by yellowish cup-shaped crusts on the scalp, and these lesions can result in scarring or non-scarring alopecia. Case Presentation: Three cases of severe tinea favosa transmitted by T. schoenleinii in Afghan immigrants residing in Iran are presented. The prevalence of tinea favosa has declined in Iran, although in some parts of Iran, mostly in the northern cities, the prevalence is still fairly high. Environmental and socioeconomic factors are the most common causes of these differences and elevated prevalence in specific northern cities. Conclusions: The increasing trend of isolation of T. schoenleinii in the immigrant population in Iran should be considered a serious health problem that requires special attention, as it could be a potential source for the re-emergence of this dermatophytic infection in the region. This emerging trend necessitates specialized medical attention and raises broader questions about regional dermatological patterns and their consequences for public health. Tinea favosa epidemiology is subject to change due to shifting migration patterns, evolving socioeconomic conditions, increased international travel, and drug overuse. In light of these findings, we propose the following recommendations: We recommend training and educational programs for healthcare professionals, especially in regions with high immigrant populations, to enhance their ability to accurately diagnose and manage tinea favosa. We also recommend raising awareness about tinea favosa, its symptoms, and the importance of seeking timely medical attention. Targeting both immigrant communities and healthcare providers is crucial.

A New Genotype of Trichophyton quinckeanum with Point Mutations in Erg11A Encoding Sterol 14-α Demethylase Exhibits Increased Itraconazole Resistance.

Trichophyton quinckeanum, the causative agent of mouse favus, has been responsible for several infections of animal owners in recent years and showed an infection peak around 2020 in Jena, Thuringia. The isolated T. quinckeanum strains from Thuringia differ in some positions of the ITS region compared to strains from the IHEM collection as well as to Trichophyton schoenleinii. All T. quinckeanum strains of the new genotype show up to a 100-fold increased itraconazole resistance as measured by microplate laser nephelometry (MLN) assays. Analysis of genes involved in Trichophyton indotineae azole resistance, such as Erg1, which encodes squalene epoxidase, and Erg11B, one of two copies of the sterol 14-α demethylase gene, show a 100% identity between the two T. quinckeanum genotypes. In contrast, Erg11A fragments differ in 15-nucleotide positions between both T. quinckeanum genotypes, resulting in the unique amino acid substitution Ala256Ser in resistant strains. The new T. quinckeanum genotype may have evolved through interspecies mating. Mating type analysis showed a nearly 100% identity of the minus type MAT1-1-1 fragment for all T. quinckeanum isolates. The closely related Trichophyton schoenleinii belongs to the plus mating type and has 100% identical fragments of Erg1 and Erg11B. Erg11A protein sequences of T. schoenleinii and T. quinckeanum showed increased diversity.

Drosophila melanogaster as a model of systemic dermatophytosis.

Dermatophytosis is one of the most common fungal infections worldwide. The distribution of dermatophytes varies across continents, but the genera Trichophyton and Microsporum have emerged as the main isolated agents in humans and animals. To validate Drosophila melanogaster flies as a fast and feasible model to study dermatophytic infections. Wild-type (WT) and Toll-deficient D. melanogaster flies were infected by Trichophyton rubrum, T. mentagrophytes, Microsporum canis and Nannizzia gypsea by pricking with a needle previously dipped in inoculum concentrations ranging from 103 to 108 colony-forming units/mL. Establishment of infection was confirmed by survival curves, histopathological analysis and fungal burden. Thereafter, flies were treated with terbinafine, itraconazole and clioquinol. WT flies were predominantly resistant to the infection, whereas Toll-deficient flies succumbed to the four dermatophyte genera tested. The antifungal drugs protected flies from the infection, except for N. gypsea whose survival curves did not differ from the untreated group. This pilot study confirms that D. melanogaster is a suitable model to study the virulence and antifungal drug efficacy in dermatophyte species.

Detection of Squalene Epoxidase Mutations in United States Patients with Onychomycosis: Implications for Management

Resistance to oral terbinafine, the most commonly used antifungal to treat dermatophytosis and onychomycosis worldwide, is being increasingly reported. In this study, we aimed to investigate the species distribution and prevalence of squalene epoxidase mutations among toenail dermatophyte isolates. Samples from 15,683 patients suspected of onychomycosis visiting the offices of dermatologists and podiatrists in the United States were analyzed. Clinical information was reviewed, and dermatophyte species with or without squalene epoxidase mutations were detected using multiplex real-time PCRs. The frequency of dermatophytes was 37.6%; of isolates belonging to the Trichophyton genus, 88.3% were the T.rubrum complex, and 11.2% were the T.mentagrophytes complex. Individuals aged >70 years exhibited higher infection rates for the T.mentagrophytes complex. The overall mutation rate among Trichophyton spp. was 3.7%, with a higher mutation rate detected in the T.mentagrophytes complex (4.3 vs. 3.6%). Commonly detected mutations were T1189C/Phe397Leu (34.5%), T1306C/Phe415Ser (16.0%), and C1191A/Phe397Leu (11.0%). Squalene epoxidase gene mutations associated with decreased terbinafine susceptibility have been identified in United States patients with toenail onychomycosis. Physicians should be aware of the risk factors for resistance development and engage in antifungal stewardship practices such as directed diagnosis and treatment of dermatophytosis and onychomycosis.