Frequency of superficial fungal infections in renal transplant recipients

ABSTRACT

To determine the frequency of superficial fungal infections in renal transplant recipients. This cross-sectional study was conducted in the outpatient clinic, Department of Dermatology, Dow University of Health Sciences and Civil Hospital Karachi. Patients of 20-60 year of age undergone renal transplant 3 to 12 months back were enrolled while patients with diabetes were excluded from study. Patients were evaluated for the presence of superficial mycoses. Skin scrapings and nail clippings were collected mycologic evaluation. A total of 62 patients were enrolled. The mean age of enrolled patients was 39.9 +/- 10.3 years and 37 [59.7%] were male. The mean duration of transplant was 7.6 +/- 2.9 months. 23 [37.1%] were on steroids. Fungal infections were documented in 38 [61.3%] patients. Of 38 patients, 19 [50%] had candidiasis. Stratified analysis showed fungal infections to be similar in >/=40 or <40 years of age [63.6% v. 58.6%], female and male [64% vs. 59.5%]; duration of transplant <8 or >8 months [63.9% vs. 57.7%] and those who were on steroids [69.6%] or other drugs [62.5%]. It is concluded from this study that patient's undergone renal transplant has increased frequency of fungal infection