Demographic and Pathogen Profiles of Superficial Fungal Infections—A Single‐Centre Observational Study in Poland
Year: 2024
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: BACKGROUND: Superficial fungal infections (SFI) are contagious conditions affecting the skin and its appendages, caused by various fungal species. Monitoring the distribution of common pathogens and identifying at-risk patient groups are essential for effective management and prevention. OBJECTIVES: This study investigates the characteristics of SFI in Poland's Malopolska region from 2017 to 2019, focusing on etiological agents, infection sites and risk factors. PATIENTS/METHODS: A retrospective analysis was conducted on 4522 mycological cultures from 3594 patients, incorporating demographic data (age, sex), sample sites and mycological test results. RESULTS: Among the 1175 positive mycological tests recorded from 959 patients, Trichophyton rubrum-primarily affecting toenails and feet-and Candida albicans-mainly targeting fingernails-were the most common pathogens across all age groups. Children exhibited a higher incidence of infections caused by Microsporum canis, Malassezia furfur and T. mentagrophytes. In contrast, Scopulariopsis brevicaulis was more frequently identified in individuals over 60 years old. CONCLUSIONS: The observed trends in SFI characteristics at our centre during the pre-pandemic period align with global epidemiological data. However, further studies are warranted to address existing gaps in understanding the epidemiology of SFI and to refine preventive and therapeutic strategies.
Source: Mycoses
DOI: 10.1111/myc.70009
Language: English
Topic: Nail Diseases and Treatments
Subfield: Epidemiology
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W4405627945