Mycological Profile of Tinea Infections Among School-Age Children in Enugu State

Dermatophytosis, commonly known as ringworm or tinea infection, is a highly prevalent superficial fungal infection disproportionately affecting school-age children in tropical Nigeria. This cross-sectional study examined the mycological profile of tinea infections among children aged 5 to 15 years attending primary schools in Enugu State, in the South East geopolitical zone of Nigeria. Skin scrapings and hair samples were collected from 180 children with clinical signs of tinea capitis, tinea corporis, and tinea pedis. Direct microscopy using potassium hydroxide (KOH) preparation and Sabouraud Dextrose Agar culture were employed for fungal isolation. Species identification was performed using slide culture techniques and microscopic morphology. Tinea capitis was the most common clinical presentation at 58 percent of cases. Trichophyton tonsurans was the predominant isolate, accounting for 46 percent of positive cultures, followed by Microsporum canis. Predisposing factors identified included shared combs or towels, overcrowded classrooms, and poor personal hygiene practices. Antifungal sensitivity testing using the disc diffusion method indicated broad susceptibility to griseofulvin and fluconazole. The study recommends school-based health education campaigns, early dermatological screening, and provision of basic hygiene materials as core preventive strategies. Strengthened community health outreach in Enugu State will be essential to reducing the burden of childhood tinea infections. Keywords: dermatophytosis, tinea capitis, school children, Enugu, fungal infection.