Steroid abuse, quality of life, and various risk factors in dermatophytosis: a cross-sectional observational study from a tertiary care center in northern India.

Introduction: Dermatophytosis is a superficial cutaneous mycosis and is steadily progressing to epidemic proportions in India. Various factors such as steroid overuse and misuse are currently making its treatment challenging. The study examines various sociodemographic characteristics, clinical factors, and steroid abuse in patients with dermatophytosis and also assess their quality of life (QOL).

Methods: A hospital‑based cross‑sectional study was carried out for a period of 1 year among adult patients with dermatophytosis after obtaining informed written consent. Sociodemographic and clinical details were recorded, and QOL was assessed with the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) questionnaire.

Results: Among 550 patients analyzed, the most common dermatophytosis was tinea (n = 408/550, 74.18%), dominated by tinea cruris and tinea corporis. Steroid abuse was frequent (n = 511/550, 92.90%), the most common being clobetasol propionate (n = 26/52, 50%). Hypopigmentation and atrophy were the most common side effects (53.52%). The mean DLQI was 14.44 ± 7.29 in males and 15.78 ± 6.26 in females. DLQI scores were statistically influenced (p < .05) by steroid abuse, low socioeconomic status, young adult status, widespread tinea, and poor hygiene.

Conclusion: Dermatophytosis was found to have a significant adverse impact on QOL. As seen in this study, the widespread abuse of steroids may be a leading cause of the emergence of recalcitrant tinea in India.