Clinical Spectrum, Risk Factors, Diagnosis, and Management of Dermatophytosis: A Comprehensive Review

Abstract

Background: Dermatophytosis is one of the most common superficial fungal infections affecting humans. It is caused predominantly by keratinophilic fungi belonging to the genera Trichophyton, Microsporum, and Epidermophyton. Persistent and recurrent disease can significantly affect quality of life. Objective: To summarize the clinical spectrum, epidemiological and predisposing factors, diagnostic approaches, and management principles of dermatophytosis. Methods: A narrative review was prepared using the uploaded clinical study as the principal data source, with emphasis on clinical presentation, conventional laboratory diagnosis, epidemiological findings, and relevant management considerations. Results: In the source clinical study, 95 clinical specimens were examined and 45 (47.4%) were positive for dermatophytes. Tinea corporis was the most frequent clinical presentation (17/45; 37.8%), while Trichophyton was the predominant genus (95.6%). T. rubrum was the most frequently identified species (44.4%). Twenty-nine positive specimens were detected by both direct microscopy and culture, while 16 were culture-positive alone. Conclusion: Dermatophytosis remains an important clinical problem. Accurate diagnosis, appropriate treatment, recognition of predisposing factors, and prevention of reinfection are essential.