THE ROLE OF NUTRITION IN SUPERFICIAL FUNGAL INFECTIONS

Abstract

Introduction: Fungal Infections in the hair, mucosa, nails, and epidermis are caused by a pathogenic fungus come under superficial fungal infections. The prognosis is not good if not treated well and early. These fungal infections are important due to their worldwide distribution, increase in the rate of transmission, and morbidity. It is common to see superficial fungal infections or mycoses in everyday clinical practice, even though they can present differently in immunocompromised patients. The main conditions caused by the Malassezia of Pityriasis versicolor are superficial candidiasis that affects skin, mouth, or genitalia, ringworm disease, or the dermatophyte. Although anti-fungals are available, there is a need of making the whole management of anti-fungal treatment more efficient.

This current study explored the role of nutrition in the management of anti-fungal conditions.

Aims and Objectives: This study intends to find the additive role of nutrition in managing fungal infection.

Materials and Methods: This Retrospective study considered 40 patients of superficial fungal infection and classified them into 2 groups based on whether they have consumed healthy nutrition. Those had good nutritional foods during the anti-fungal treatments were allotted to Nutrition group and others were allotted to Non-Nutrition group.

Results: The study found out that the Nutrition group recovered from the fungal infection much earlier than that of Non-Nutrition group. The figures and boxplot diagram showed the details of the findings.

Conclusion: The study concluded that the nutrition should be considered as an adjuvant to anti-fungal drugs in the management of superficial fungal infection.

Keywords: nutrition, fungal, infection, adjuvant