Browsing by Author "Olarinoye, G."

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    Tinea capitis: aetiology, clinical features, and risk factors among school pupils in Ilorin, Kwara state, Nigeria.
    (Nigerian Journal of Dermatology, 2021) Olarinoye, G.; Katibi, O.S.; Ameh, A.; Fayemiwo, S.; Ogunbiyi, A.; George, A
    Background: Tinea capitis (TC) is an identified cause of physical and psychosocial distress among many children in our clime. The predominant aetiological agents have been known to vary with time and geographic location. We sought to determine the current pattern of causative dermatophyte species in our study population. We also aimed to describe the sociodemographic details and prevailing clinical features of TC among the studied children. Methods: The study was a descriptive, cross-sectional study involving 204 children from public primary schools in the Nigerian city of Ilorin, Kwara State. Pupils with clinically diagnosed TC had KOH microscopy and fungal culture done. Results: Trichophyton tonsurans was the most frequently isolated dermatophyte specie. The grey patch was the most common clinical type of TC. Frequently observed variables are male gender, low socioeconomic status, overcrowding, sharing of head garments and hair care instruments, carrying objects on the head and proximity to domestic animals. Over 50% of pupils reported physical or psychosocial distress, while 15.7% had developed permanent hair loss. Despite these, adequate orthodox management was rarely sought. Conclusion: Tinea capitis and its consequences should not be overlooked. A holistic approach at the community level may help reduce the disease burden.