Year: 2024
Type: article
Abstract: Introduction: Recalcitrant dermatophyte infections, resistant to conventional antifungal therapies, present a significant clinical challenge.This study investigates the clinical and pathological features of these infections to identify factors contributing to their resistance and evaluate treatment outcomes.Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted with 120 patients unresponsive to standard antifungal treatments for at least three months.Clinical assessments, laboratory investigations, and histopathological examinations were performed.Patients received individualized treatment regimens, including topical, systemic, and combined antifungal therapies, with follow-up over 12 weeks.Results: The study population had a mean age of 45.3 years, with a male predominance (56.7%).Positive KOH mounts were found in 81.7% of cases, and Trichophyton spp. was the most common pathogen (46.7%).Combined therapy yielded the highest clinical improvement (80.0%) and mycological cure rates (88.0%),though a 16.7% recurrence rate was observed.Adverse effects included gastrointestinal disturbances (12.5%) and hepatotoxicity (4.2%), with high treatment compliance (75.0%).Conclusion: Managing recalcitrant dermatophyte infections requires comprehensive diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.Combined topical and systemic therapy is most effective, but recurrence and adverse effects remain challenges.Further research is needed to develop safer and more effective treatments.
Author: Dr Harshitha K.S
Language: English
Topic: Nail Diseases and Treatments
Subfield: Epidemiology
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4405208021