# Etiological Agents and Predisposing Factors of Superficial Fungal Infections in Northeastern Argentina

## TL;DR

This study identifies the causes and risk factors for superficial fungal infections in northeastern Argentina, highlighting the role of dermatophytes and poor socioenvironmental conditions.

## Contribution

The study provides region-specific insights into the etiology and risk factors of superficial fungal infections in a community in Argentina.

## Key findings

- Dermatophytes, particularly Trichophyton tonsurans, were the most common cause of superficial fungal infections.
- Male sex, age 1–14 years, and overcrowding were significantly associated with dermatophytosis.
- Poor access to sanitation and potable water was prevalent among affected individuals.

## Abstract

Superficial fungal infections (SFIs) account for approximately 2% of outpatient visits. Individual, environmental, and socioeconomic factors may increase susceptibility. The objective was to identify the etiological agents of SFIs and the predisposing factors. A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted on patients attending the Level I Hospital in Puerto Piray, Misiones Province, Argentina, during a community intervention between 2022 and 2023. Statistical analysis was performed on the studied variables and their association with the identified etiological agents. A total of 138 clinical samples were collected from 107 patients with lesions suggestive of SFIs. Of the samples studied, 37% had an identified etiological agent. The majority were women (65%), those aged over 45 years (29%), and patients with underlying conditions (50%). A lack of access to sewage systems (100%) and potable water (19%) and overcrowding (19%) were observed. Dermatophytes (46%) were the most frequent etiological agents, with Trichophyton tonsurans being the primary species. An association was found between dermatophytosis and male sex (odds ratio [OR]: 4.4), ages 1–14 years (OR: 8.04), and overcrowding (OR: 5.38). In conclusion, the prevalence of SFIs was high in the studied population. The main etiological agents involved were anthropophilic dermatophyte fungi. Socioenvironmental conditions may contribute to the incidence of these pathologies.