Prevalence and mycological spectrum of superficial mycoses at a tertiary care center in Karwar, Karnataka

Background: Superficial mycoses include fungal infection of skin, hair, and nails that are caused predominantly by dermatophytes, yeast, and molds. Despite their prevalence, comprehensive epidemiological data on superficial mycoses are lacking; highlighting the need to understand their burden for effective patient care and public health intervention. Aims and Objectives: The aim of the study was to assess the burden of superficial mycoses and identify the spectrum of causative fungal isolates. Materials and Methods: A 3 months hospital based cross-sectional study was conducted at Karwar Institute of Medical Sciences, where from 91 patients (age >18 years) clinically suspected with superficial mycoses. Their skin, hair, and nail samples were collected after obtaining informed consent and subjected to direct microscopy by potassium hydroxide wet mount and further processed for culture, inoculated into Sabouraud dextrose agar with or without cycloheximide and chloramphenicol. The culture was identified using standard protocols. Results: The burden of superficial mycoses was 45%, with a male-to-female ratio of 4:3. Dermatophytes were the most frequently isolated fungi. Among them, Microsporum gypseum was predominant (56%), followed by Trichophyton tonsurans (17%) and Trichophyton rubrum (12%). Conclusion: In the diagnosis of superficial mycoses, both Microscopy and fungal culture reciprocate each other, which is necessary for early diagnosis and treatment, in hot and humid climatic conditions like coastal Karnataka.