ABSTRACT
Aim: This study was aimed at investigating the in vitro susceptibility of known dermatophytes to Musa paradisiaca leaf extract. Methodology: The antifungal activity of the methanol extract, aqueous fraction and cream formulation of Musa paradisiaca leaf was established by agar well diffusion method while minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was determined by broth microdilution and broth macrodilution methods respectively. Results: Results obtained show that all the test organisms had varying degrees of susceptibility which is comparable to that of a standard drug, ketoconazole. Microsporum audounii exhibited the lowest MIC of 25 mg/mL for the aqueous fraction and 50 mg/mL for the cream formulation. The MFC/MIC ratio determined indicates the fungicidal potential of the plant. Conclusion: The in vitro susceptibility of M. paradisiaca leaf extract to known dermatophytes is an indication of the possible use of the leaf as a potential for the treatment of skin infections due to the tested organisms.