Prevalence of Tinea capitis among Primary School Children of a Rural Community in Gombe, Nigeria, and Associated Predisposing Factors

Tinea capitis, an infection of the scalp and hair shaft, is increasingly prevalent worldwide among children aged between six months and pre-pubertal age. This descriptive cross-sectional study aimed to assess the prevalence, identify causative agents, and the predisposing factors for Tinea capitis infection among primary school children of a rural community in Gombe, Nigeria. Scalp and hair scrapings were collected from school children with a clinical diagnosis of T. capitis for microscopic examination and fungal culture. Relevant information for investigating predisposing factors was collected using a well-structured questionnaire. Out of the 60 samples collected, the mycological analysis of 58 samples revealed dermatophyte presence, while 2 samples were contaminated with Aspergillus niger. The prevalent fungi included Trichophyton mentagrophyte (25%), Microsporum canis (20%), Trichophyton rubrum (13.3%), Microsporum gypseum (11.6%), Trichophyton schoenleinii (10%), Trichophyton verrucusum (8.3%), Trichophyton tonsurans (8.3%) and Aspergillus niger (3%). Common predisposing factors identified were sharing combs, towels, bed sheets and close contact with household pets. Additionally, low socioeconomic status, overcrowding in mud houses, and poor hygiene practices emerged as determinants of Tinea capitis transmission among children. In light of these findings, the study underscores the need for comprehensive health promotion and educational interventions, emphasizing personal hygiene and the importance of proper living conditions.