Psychosocial and Financial Impact of Dermatophytosis on Patients Attending a Tertiary Care Centre at Visakhapatnam: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background Dermatophytosis has become a growing concern in India, with rising cases fueled by recurrent infections, antifungal resistance, and misuse of steroid-antifungal treatments. Beyond the physical discomfort, many patients struggle with embarrassment, depression, and a diminished quality of life (QoL). This study bridges that gap by using the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) questionnaire to assess how dermatophytosis affects patients' daily lives, while also exploring the financial strain it imposes, offering valuable insights to improve care and address the challenges these individuals face. Methodology This cross-sectional study was conducted over four months in the department of Dermatology, Venereology, and Leprosy at Gayatri Vidya Parishad Institute of Healthcare and Medical Technology, Visakhapatnam, involving 123 patients aged ≥18 years diagnosed with dermatophytosis. Patients with tinea who provided informed consent were included following our inclusion and exclusion criteria. Data collection utilized the DLQI questionnaire and case study forms to capture sociodemographics, clinical variables, and financial burden. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25 with descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests. Ethical approval and written consent were obtained. Results The study, conducted among 123 participants aged 18 to 74 years (mean age 39.07 ± 12.72), highlighted the substantial burden of dermatophytosis on the QoL. Tinea corporis, alone or with tinea cruris, was the most common diagnosis (41; 33.3%), and most cases occurred in the 30-45 age group. The majority of patients, 104 (85%), experienced a prolonged disease duration of six to 24 months. Despite varying lesion counts and sites, including the pubic region, face, and extremities, dermatophytosis consistently showed a significant psychosocial impact, with 74 (60%) reporting a "very large" and 35 (28%) an "extremely large" effect on the DLQI. Gender differences were negligible, as both males and females experienced comparable impacts. Financial strain and worry were common among participants, with 32 (26%) being financially dependent, and higher worry levels correlating with worse DLQI scores. Although statistical significance was not achieved for some variables, the findings underline the pervasive and multifaceted challenges faced by dermatophytosis patients. Conclusion This study underscores the significant psychosocial and financial burden of dermatophytosis on affected individuals, particularly those in the most productive age group of 30-45 years. Prolonged disease duration and widespread lesion distribution highlight the chronic and pervasive nature of the condition. The DLQI revealed that the majority of patients experienced a "very large" or "extremely large" impact on their QoL, irrespective of gender, number of lesions, or diagnosis type. Although financial dependency and worry levels were notable, they showed a close yet statistically insignificant association with the QoL impact. These findings highlight the importance of timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment to reduce the prolonged suffering associated with dermatophytosis. Addressing both the physical symptoms and the emotional and financial challenges faced by patients is crucial for improving their overall QoL. A patient-centered approach, focusing on comprehensive care and support, can significantly alleviate the burden of this condition.