Investigation of Mycological flora in Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences bath hostels in 2011

Damp environments with suitable temperature such as swimming pools and public baths produce appropriate conditions for growth and spread of fungi. Investigation of opportunistic and pathogenic fungi in these places can be helpful for elimination or reduction of the rate of potential fungal infections. This study was performed to find fungal contamination in the student hostels in Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences. Samples were collected from the walls and floors of the bathrooms and were cultured in Sabouraud dextrose agar medium containing chloramphenicol (SC), and Sabouraud dextrose agar medium containing chloramphenicol and cyclohexamide (SCC). All cultures were incubated at 28 C, and were observed weekly for fungal growth. All fungal isolates were identified by macroscopic and microscopic examination. A total of 256 samples were collected.196samples (56/76%) were positivefor fungal growth. The most common fungi were: Cladosporium spp. (28.9%), Exophialla spp. (23.3%), and Rodutorella spp. (13.2%). Also Trichophitonmentagrophytes and Microsporumgypseum were isolated from baths samples. For prevention of mycotic infections, effective preventive measures such as use of private or disposable slippers and adequate cleaning of the bathrooms after taking bath can be beneficial.