pdf Phenotypic Characterization of Isolation and Identification of Tinea Pedis in Athletes' Foot

Alaa Khudur Boulos, Abdulameer Jasim and Omar Sadik Shalal

Abstract

Tinea pedis, or athlete's foot, is a fungal infection invading the region between the toes. Although a prevalent ailment, there might be an absence of information about its transmission, risk factors, and healthcare choices among the general public.

The research included 35 male athlete participants in Iraq. The questionnaire was delivered to athletes from sports centers and clubs, which ran from December 2023 to July 2024. Skin scrapings were microscopically analysed in a 20% potassium hydroxide (KOH) mount. The dermatophyte test medium and Sabouraud dextrose agar were used for culture. Lactophenol cotton blue staining and other unique methods, such as biochemical testing like the urease and other tests, were used to differentiate macroscopic and microscopic results.

The current study aimed to find the Phenotypic Characterization of some dermatophytes in athletes' feet.

A total of 36 cases of the athlete diagnosis reported that the KOH and SDA are 100% while when using selective media such as DTM is 80 % on the other hand using a biochemical test such as Keratinase, Nitrate, Urease, DNase are 80% while lipids and carbohydrate is 70% that reveal differentiation on the phenotypic characteristic according to different species of dermatophyte infection agents.

The conventional diagnosis method seems insufficient in the presence of aberrant morphology or pleomorphism. however, our labs must use molecular approaches to identify and provide better treatment.