Clinicomycological profile of tinea capitis in children residing in orphanages.

Abstract

Tinea capitis is the most common dermatophyte infection of the scalp affecting mainly children and rarely adults. It is closely related to the socio-economic and hygienic conditions typical of the lower strata of rural and urban population. Aims: The study was undertaken to delineate clinical and mycological profile of tinea capitis among children residing in orphanages and compare the sensitivity and specificity of KOH microscopy and culture. Materials and methods: A total of 218 children residing in orphanages were included in this cross sectional study. Results: Among the 218 children screened, 51 (23.3%) showed the clinical evidence of tinea capitis. Grey patch was the commonest clinical type (54.9%). Direct microscopic examination was positive in 68.62% cases. Dermatophytes were isolated in 43.13% cases and Trichophyton rubrum was the commonest species (50%) isolated. Conclusions: The results of this study reveal that tinea capitis is very common in children with a low socioeconomic profile (low standard of living, poor hygiene, overcrowded living