From Lab to Clinic: Understanding Dermatophytoses through Clinical and Mycological Studies

Dermatophytosis is the most common fungal infection seen in man and animals. It is
caused by a group of fungi known as dermatophytes. These are a group of closely
related fungi that have the capacity to invade the keratinized tissues (skin, hair, and
nails) of humans and other animals to produce an infection, dermatophytosis,
commonly referred to as ringworm . The dermatophyte fungi are ubiquitous and no
people or geographical area spared by these organisms. Fungal infections of the
skin and nails have developed over the last few years to become significant infectious
diseases. A one year survey conducted in the USA revealed fungal infections and the
resulting antifungal therapy incurred expenses of 43 million dollars through 1.3
million doctor visits among patients over 65 years of age. The situation in India is
not different. The studies from India showed that last few years the dermatophyte
infection is increased and many cases of uncommon infections were also
reported '