Prevalence and Antifungal Susceptibility of Dermatophytes Causing Tinea Infections Among Secondary School Students in Makurdi, Benue State

Dermatophytoses, commonly called tinea infections, are among the most prevalent superficial fungal infections worldwide, particularly in tropical settings with high humidity and crowded living conditions. This study investigated the prevalence and antifungal susceptibility of dermatophytes isolated from secondary school students presenting with tinea infections in Makurdi, Benue State, North Central Nigeria. Skin scrapings, hair samples, and nail clippings from 100 students with clinical signs of tinea capitis, tinea corporis, tinea pedis, and tinea unguium were processed by direct microscopy using potassium hydroxide (KOH) preparation and cultured on Dermatophyte Test Medium (DTM) and SDA. Confirmed dermatophyte isolates were identified by macroscopic and microscopic morphology. Broth microdilution assay was used to determine minimum inhibitory concentrations for fluconazole, itraconazole, terbinafine, and griseofulvin. The overall prevalence of dermatophytoses was 48 percent. Trichophyton tonsurans was the most common isolate (43%), followed by Microsporum canis (27%), Trichophyton rubrum (18%), and Epidermophyton floccosum (12%). Terbinafine demonstrated the lowest MIC values across all isolates, while resistance to griseofulvin was detected in 18 percent. Boarding school residence and sharing of personal grooming items were significant risk factors. The study recommends routine fungal surveillance in boarding schools and availability of terbinafine-based treatment protocols. Keywords: dermatophytes, tinea infections, antifungal susceptibility, secondary school students, Makurdi.