The incidence of superficial mycoses has increased recently due to frequent usage of antibiotics and various immunosuppressive conditions. In the background of immunosuppression, detection of these agents becomes necessary for effective management and prevention of further invasions. The objective of the study was to determine the prevalence and causative agents of superficial mycoses in order to provide early and efficient treatment. A cross-sectional study was conducted for 3 months (JuneAugust 2015) on patients with suspected superficial mycoses attending our Dermatology OPD. Skin, hair and nail samples were collected and transported aseptically to Microbiology laboratory for further processing. Out of the 394 cases that attended the dermatology OPD, 48 clinically suspected cases of superficial mycoses were studied. Prevalence of superficial mycoses was . 41 cases showed positive culture, while only 37 cases were KOH positive. T. rubrum was the most common dermatophyte () and the commonest causative agent () while Candida spp were the most common non-dermatophyte (50%) and 3rd most common etiological agent () isolated. We concluded that along with dermatophytes, dermatomycotic fungi are also emerging as an important cause of superficial mycoses. Though culture was found to be more sensitive than KOH mount, both techniques are important tools of diagnosis. | A study on prevalence and clinico-mycological profile of superficial fungal infections in a tertiary care hospital
