Trichophyton Mentagrophytes: An Emerging Cause of Tinea Capitis in Rural Part of North Karnataka

Dermatophytosis, particularly tinea capitis (TC), is a significant public health concern in rural North Karnataka, India. Trichophyton (T.) mentagrophytes has emerged as a predominant pathogen in this region, necessitating a closer examination of its clinicodemographic pattern, resistance patterns, and effective management strategies. This prospectively carried out cross-sectional study was conducted at a tertiary center in North Karnataka between January 2016 and September 2017. It involved 54 patients with clinically diagnosed TC. The study involved collecting clinical history, performing physical and systemic examinations, and analyzing scrapings and affected hairs. Diagnostic methods included direct microscopy with potassium hydroxide (KOH), culture in Sabouraud's dextrose agar, and Wood's lamp examination. The study population's average age was 8.46 years, with a notable prevalence (24%) of TC caused by T. mentagrophytes . The infection was more common in males and those from rural areas. Socioeconomic status played a significant role, with a higher incidence in lower socioeconomic classes. A positive contact history with TC increased the likelihood of infection. Grey patches were the most common clinical sign, and culture preparations effectively diagnosed T. mentagrophytes infection. Limited sample size, recall bias, referral bias, and a low number of culture-positive T. mentagrophytes cases. TC due to T. mentagrophytes poses a significant public health challenge in rural North Karnataka, with higher susceptibility among young males from lower socioeconomic backgrounds. The study underscores the need for targeted healthcare interventions in these communities and emphasizes the importance of early recognition and management of this infection. Enhanced public health measures, including education on hygiene and monitoring for antifungal resistance, are crucial for effective management.