Isolation and Identification of Dermatophytes Causing Tinea Capitis in the Jabalpur Region, Madhya Pradesh, India

Abstract

Fungal infections are common health problems, particularly in tropical and developing regions where warm and humid conditions favor their growth. The present study was conducted to investigate the occurrence and identification of fungal agents responsible for tinea capitis in the Jabalpur region of Madhya Pradesh, India. Dermatophytosis, commonly known as ringworm, is a superficial fungal infection caused by keratinophilic fungi that invade keratinized tissues such as skin, hair, and nails.
A total of 10 clinically suspected cases of tinea capitis were included in the study. Scalp scrapings were collected under aseptic conditions and cultured on Sabouraud Dextrose Agar (SDA) and Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA) media. The samples were incubated at 28°C for 7–14 days. Identification of fungal isolates was carried out using macroscopic observations of colony morphology and microscopic examination through Lactophenol Cotton Blue (LPCB) staining. KOH examination was also performed as a preliminary diagnostic method.
Out of the 10 samples, 7 cases (70%) were positive for fungal infection, while 3 cases (30%) were negative. The majority of the study population consisted of females aged 16–30 years. The predominant fungal isolates were dermatophytes such as Trichophyton spp. and Microsporum spp. In addition, non-dermatophyte fungi including Aspergillus spp. and Rhizopus spp. were also identified, indicating their role as opportunistic pathogens.
A strong correlation between KOH examination and culture results confirmed the reliability of these diagnostic techniques. The duration of infection ranged from 2 months to 4 years, with chronic cases showing higher positivity.
The study concludes that dermatophytosis is prevalent in the study area and requires early diagnosis, proper treatment, and improved hygiene practices for effective control.