ISOLATION OF FUNGAL PATHOGENS ASSOCIATED WITH RINGWORM SPECIMENS IN OBUDU LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA CROSS RIVER STATE
Abstract
Ringworm is a common superficial mycosis caused primarily by dermatophytes but may
also involve opportunistic fungi. This study aimed to isolate and identify fungal pathogens
associated with ringworm infections in Obudu Local Government Area, Cross River State,
Nigeria. Fifteen skin scrapings from clinically diagnosed patients were examined
microscopically using potassium hydroxide (KOH), cultured on Sabouraud dextrose agar
and potato dextrose agar, and identified with lactophenol cotton blue staining. Out of the
15 isolates recovered, Trichophyton spp. (33.3%) and Microsporum spp. (20.0%)
represented dermatophytes, while Aspergillus spp. (46.7%) were the most frequent nondermatophytes.
Infections were more common in males (53.4%) than females (46.6%),
with the highest prevalence among children aged 6–10 years (53.4%). This research
confirms the continued role of dermatophytes in ringworm but also highlight the
significance of Aspergillus spp. in superficial infections in the area. Improved hygiene
practices, public health education, and molecular profiling of isolates are recommended to
strengthen diagnosis, treatment, and prevention strategies.
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