Introduction: Chronic and recalcitrant dermatophytosis is an emerging disease burden in India that has a profound psychosocial impact in affected individuals . Tinea incognito, modified by steroid usage has a greater impact on quality of life (QoL).
Objectives: to assess the clinicoepidemiological profile, risk factors, QoL and financial burden among patients with dermatophytosis at a tertiary care centre in rural South India.
Methods: This was a prospective hospital based cross-sectional study conducted at the Dermatology outpatient Department between January 2022 and January 2023. Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI), 5D pruritus and financial burden scores were calculated to assess various parameters.
Results: Among 150 patients, females (95,63%) were more affected than males (55,37%). The mean age was 37.79±13.8 years. Chronic dermatophytosis was seen in 95(63.3%) patients. Tinea incognito 93(62%) was the most common clinical type followed by tinea corporis 49(32.6%). The mean DLQI score was 18.78±6.78 (Range 3-30) with very large impact seen in 79(52.7%) patients followed by an extremely large impact in 58(38.7%) patients. QoL was significantly more affected in tinea incognito (20.68 ± 6.73) compared to tinea corporis (14.90 ± 4.72). Mean 5D Pruritus score was 15.53± 2.52 (Range 9 to 23). Patients with huge financial burdens had a greater impact on QoL with a mean DLQI value of 6.67±3.06.
Conclusion: Patients with tinea incognito had higher DLQI, 5D pruritus score, and a greater financial burden compared to tinea corporis. Psychological counseling should be given along with antifungal treatment to address the QoL and for a better treatment compliance.