Detection and identification of dermatophytes based on currently available methods - a comparative study

Aims Accurate identification of dermatophytes is essential for implementing appropriate antifungal treatment and epidemiological analysis. However, the limitations of conventional diagnostics are a frequently discussed topic, and new diagnostic techniques are constantly expanding. In this study, we assess the suitability of conventional diagnostic techniques in comparison to the real-time PCR assay and MALDI-TOF MS in detection and identification of dermatophytes. Methods and Results Strains included in this study were obtained from human and animals with symptomatic, and asymptomatic infection. A direct examination revealed that 31 center dot 7 and 60 center dot 9% of samples from symptomatic patients, and 25 center dot 7 and 60% from asymptomatic animals were positive, as shown by light and fluorescence microscopy respectively. In turn, dermatophytes were isolated from 90 center dot 2 and 71 center dot 4% of these samples. The pan-dermatophyte primers in real-time PCR assay facilitated detection in 85 center dot 3 and 82 center dot 9% of the symptomatic and asymptomatic dermatophytoses respectively. Additionally, species-specific PCR assays were positive in 70 center dot 7 and 37 center dot 1% of these samples. The MALDI-TOF MS analysis yielded positive results consistent with conventional techniques in 97 center dot 2 and 72% of symptomatic and asymptomatic infections respectively. Conclusions Our study revealed that there is no universal diagnostic method that would be ideal in each of the cases considered. Nonetheless, conventional techniques are still the most effective and reliable tools for mycological diagnostics. Significance and Impact of the Study Dermatologists and veterinarians have difficulties in making a diagnosis of dermatophytoses based only on observed symptoms of fungal infections, as they mimic symptoms of other dermatoses. In this context, a comparative analysis of the results of diagnostics performed using conventional methods and new technologies are crucial for implementing these pioneer methods into routine laboratory practice.

Automated summary

This study assessed the suitability of conventional diagnostic techniques compared to real-time PCR assay and MALDI-TOF MS in detection and identification of dermatophytes. The results showed that conventional techniques are still the most effective and reliable tools for mycological diagnostics.