Dermatophyte Infections in Children: A Prospective Study from Port Harcourt, Nigeria
Keywords:
Skin Dermatophyte Infections, Children, Prospective StudyAbstract
Background: Fungal infections constitute a major health problem all over the world including Nigeria. The aim of this study was to evaluate the spectrum of dermatophyte infections among children attending the Dermatological Clinic of the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital (UPTH), Nigeria.
Methods: This was a prospective study of children with dermatophyte infection attending the Dermatological Clinic of the UPTH, Nigeria from January 2009 to December 2009. Diagnosis was made based on clinical features and confirmed by direct microscopy of the diseased tissue and culture of aetiological agent.
Results: A total of 432 children (whose ages ranged from 2 months to 16 years) were seen with skin diseases. Out of these, 49 had dermatophyte infection. Males 31(63.3%) were more affected than females 18(36.7%).Most 34(69.4%) of the children resided in urban slums with poor hygiene and social conditions. There was a predominance of tinea capitis 23(46.9 %). Trichophyton specie 28(57.1 %) and Epidermophyton specie 11 (22.4%) were most frequent causative fungi. Most children with dermatophytosis 41(83.7%) were below 10 years. Itchy rashes were the main presenting feature 31(63.3%).
Conclusion: The prevalence of dermatophyte infection among children in high. There is need for health education and public awareness campaigns among the communities in urban informal settlements on healthy seeking behaviors and hygiene in order to reduce transmission and severe clinical manifestations.
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