Prevalence of tinea corporis and tinea cruris in Chitradurga rural population

Introduction: Globally, the prevalence of superficial fungal skin infection is 20–25%. Dermatophytes are the most common agents. In general population, tinea corporis and tinea cruris infections are very common. The present study is to find the prevalence of tinea corporis and tinea cruris in Chitradurga rural population. Materials and Methods: This is a prospective observational study, conducted at Dermatology Department of Dermatology, Basaveshwara Medical College and Hospital, Chitradurga. A total of 200 patients showing lesions typical of dermatophytes infection were included in this study. Among 200 patients, 107 patients had tinea corporis, 50 patients had tinea cruris, 7 patients had tinea facia and 36 patients had other fungal infections. A detailed clinical history was taken from study subjects. Result: In the present study, 200 patients were included in the study. Among them 107 patients were diagnosed as tinea corporis (53.5%) and 50 patients had tinea cruris (25%) infection. Out of 107 tinea corporis patients 76 (71%) were males and 31 (29%) were females. Out of 50 tinea cruris patients 35 (70%) were males and 15 (30%) were females. Tinea facia is diagnosed in 7 patients and 36 patients had other fungal infections. Tinea corporis is more prevalent in males than females. Conclusion: Dermatophytosis, a common condition, especially tinea corporis and tinea cruris is public health problem affecting all age groups in our area. It is found that the prevalence of tinea corporis (53.5%) is more in this population and the prevalence of tinea corporis is high in males (71%) and in 21-30 years of age group. Use of non-occlusive absorbent cotton garments and good hygiene prevent this ring worm infection.