Comparison of Broth Micro Dilution and Disk Diffusion Methods for Susceptibility Testing of Dermatophytes

Abstract

Dermatophytes are responsible for the majority of the fungal infections involving skin, hair and nails. There has been a remarkable increase in the number of fungal infections especially in those people whose immune system is compromised. Though there are several antifungal drugs used to treat dermatophytosis, some infections respond well to topical antifungal therapy, whereas others like tinea capitis, tinea unguium (nail infection), and more extensive or severe types may require systemic therapy. Antifungal susceptibility testing is performed to provide information to allow clinicians to select appropriate antifungal agents useful for treating a particular fungal infection. The aim of this study is to compare both broth microdilution method & disk diffusion method for in vitro activity of some antifungal drugs (Terbinafine, Fluconazole, and Itraconazole) against different species of dermatophytes.