A retrospective study on onychomycosis in Khoozestan, Iran

Abstract EN

Objective : to demonstrate the distribution of fungal agents responsible for onychomycosis either directly or indirectly in Khoozestan province, southwest of Iran.

Methods : A retrospective study was performed on the basis of the mycology laboratory records of the basis of the mycology and Parasitology Center of Khoozestan province, Iran, during a period of 11 years (1987-1997).

Nail samples were collected by clipping and scraping.

Direct examinations were performed on all specimens.

Sabouraud dextrose agar, Sabouraud with cycloheximide and chloramphenicol were used for culture.

Results : A total of 2525 persons examined for nail mycotic infection.

Women were effected more than men (% 72.9) and 27.1 % respectively, P < 0.01).

Of a total of 1085 positive nail cultures, 866 (79.8 %) demonstrated Candida albicans, 84 (7.7 %) Candida species, 22 (2.02 %) dermatophytes, and 113 (10.4 %) moulds.

Of the species causing nail dermatophytosis, Trichophyton mentagrophytes was the most common (40.9 %) whereas of the species causing mould infections.

Aspergillus fumigatus was the commonest (38 %).

Conclusion : This study showed that Candida albicans might be the most common cause of onychpmycosis in Khoozestan, south-west of Iran.

A similar situation is observed in neighboring countries.