Isolation and Characterization of Tinea capitis on Hair Barbing Equipment in Students' Residential Area, Southwest Local Government, Ibadan

This study investigated the isolation and characterization of Tinea capitis-associated dermatophytes from hair barbing equipment used within the student residential area of the Federal College of Animal Health and Production Technology (FCAH&PT). Fungal contamination on clippers, brushes, and combs was assessed using the swab plate technique with Sabouraud Dextrose Agar as the culture medium. Inoculated plates were incubated at 25 °C. Among the equipment tested, brushes harbored the highest fungal load, followed by combs, with clippers showing the least contamination. Fungal counts in brushes were significantly higher (p ≤ 0.05) compared to clippers. A total of four dermatophyte species were isolated and identified: Trichophyton tonsurans (50%), Microsporum canis (25%), Trichophyton schoenleinii (12.5%), and Microsporum audouinii (12.5%). The presence of these dermatophytes on barbing equipment underscores the potential role of such items in the transmission of Tinea capitis. The study highlights the need for regulatory measures in the barbering industry to reduce the risk of fungal infections. Identified predisposing factors for Tinea capitis included the use of inadequately sterilized barbing tools, low socioeconomic status, contact with domestic animals, and poor personal hygiene. KEYWORDS: Isolation, Characterization, Tinea capitis, Barbing equipment and Students