Epidemiological survey of dermatophytosis in Damascus, Syria, from 2008 to 2016

Background and It is important to follow annually the probable changes in distribution pattern of dermatophytosis and its etiological agents in different communities. In this study, we determined the prevalence of dermatophytosis and its causative agents in Damascus, Syria, between 2008 and 2016.
A total of 4080 outpatients who visited the dermatological clinics in Damascus, were evaluated. The specimens were collected from clinically suspected tinea. The patients were referred to our laboratory for direct examination by 30% KOH. Some of the specimens were cultured on Sabouraud Dextrose Agar for fungal identification.
Out of the 4080 cases, 1138 cases were positive in direct examination 27.89%), including Tinea pedis (46.98%), followed by tinea capitis (39.79%), tinea corporis (25.38%), toenail onychomycosis 20.33%), tinea manuum (16.06%), and fingernail onychomycosis (15.22%). Tinea pedis and toenail onychomycosis were more common in summer (41.19% and 25.78% respectively). Trichophytic rubrum was the most prevalent fungal pathogen, especially in toenail onychomycosis.
Dermatophytosis is highly prevalent in Syria. This study provides valuable data for differential diagnosis of dermatophytosis.