Evaluation of Serum Cortisol Level in Chronic Superficial Dermatophytosis

Introduction: The epidemic-like scenario of superficial fungal infections in India has been complicated by the rampant use of systemic and topical potent steroids. In this study, we hypothesize that the unjudicial use of topical corticosteroids can cause Hypothalamic pituitary axis suppression in chronic dermatophytosis patients. Objectives: To estimate morning serum cortisol levels in chronic superficial dermatophytosis patients. Materials and Methods: A total of 208 individuals were enrolled in this study. In which, 104 (50%) patients had Chronic superficial dermatophytosis (case group) and 104 (50%) patients were healthy (control group). Their clinical details and laboratory investigations including KOH and serum cortisol, were recorded on a pre-designed proforma. Results: The mean S. Cortisol level was 7.27±5.34 μg/ml in cases and 11.21±5.92 μg/ml in the control group. The mean S. Cortisol level was significantly lower in cases as than controls (p <0.001).Conclusion: This study shows that patients with chronic superficial dermatophytosis have low serum cortisol compared to healthy controls.