Growing signifi cance of Microsporum canis in tinea of animal handlers

Abstract

Pratibha Dave, Raj Mahendra, Mahendra Pal

Aim: The primary objective of this study was to ascertain the etiologic role of Microsporum canis in various dermatological disorders of patients from rural areas of Bharuch, Gujarat, India. Materials and Methods: In all 27 patients of both sexes, and different age groups attending the outpatient department of Welfare Hospital, and Shashwat Clinic were investigated for M. canis infection by employing standard mycological techniques. Results: Of 27 patients examined, only three were found positive for M. canis both by direct microscopy and cultural isolation. All the three patients had no evidence of immunosuppression, and reported close contact with sick animals. The detailed microscopic morphology of the isolates in Narayan stain confirmed the identity as M. canis. Chemotherapy with topical application of antifungal drugs such as clotrimazole (1%), terbinafine (1%), and luliconazole (1%) was successful in all the patients. None of the patients showed any side effects. Conclusion: It is deduced that patients with a history of contact with animals should be investigated for the zoophilic dermatophyes particularly M. canis as this fungus has emerged as a global mycotic pathogen of humans and animals. It is recommended that epidemiological investigation should be conducted to establish the source of infection. The patient with few small ringworm lesions can be successful with treated with topical application of antimycotic drugs, and thus avoid the use of systemic therapy. Furthermore, the early diagnosis and prompt therapy is imperative to prevent the spread of infection.