In Vitro Antifungal Activity Against Moulds from Skin Specimens
Journal name: The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences
Original article title: In Vitro Antifungal Activities against Moulds Isolated from Dermatological Specimens
The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences (MJMS) is a peer-reviewed, open-access journal published online at least six times a year. It covers all aspects of medical sciences and prioritizes high-quality research.
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Tzar Mohd Nizam, Rabiatul Adawiyah AG. Binting, Shafika Mohd Saari, Thivyananthini Vijaya Kumar, Marianayati Muhammad, Hartini Satim, Hamidah Yusoff, Jacinta Santhanam
The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences:
(A peer-reviewed, open-access journal)
Full text available for: In Vitro Antifungal Activities against Moulds Isolated from Dermatological Specimens
Year: 2016
Copyright (license): CC BY 4.0
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
This study aimed to investigate the minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of various antifungal agents against moulds isolated from dermatological specimens collected between October 2012 and March 2013. The research focused on identifying 29 mould species through conventional methods and evaluating their susceptibility to six antifungal drugs: amphotericin B, clotrimazole, itraconazole, ketoconazole, miconazole, and terbinafine. This effort was crucial to increase the limited susceptibility data concerning moulds, thereby providing valuable insights for clinicians in treating fungal infections effectively.
Variable Antifungal Efficacy Against Moulds
The results revealed that most antifungal agents were effective against dermatophytes, with amphotericin B and clotrimazole showing the highest activity. However, terbinafine was less effective against Trichophyton rubrum, with a geometric mean MIC of 3.17 μg/mL. The susceptibility of dematiaceous moulds varied, being relatively susceptible to amphotericin B and azoles (MICs ranging from 0.17–0.34 μg/mL) but resistant to terbinafine (MIC of 3.62 μg/mL). Non-dermatophyte hyaline moulds exhibited a broader range of MICs, indicating differing susceptibilities, particularly with highly resistant Fusarium spp. Amphotericin B demonstrated significant antifungal activity against zygomycetes, providing an essential perspective on the choice of treatment for different fungal infections.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while this study provided essential insights into the antifungal susceptibility of dermatologically isolated moulds, it acknowledged limitations such as a small sample size and the absence of established clinical breakpoints for many mould-drug combinations. Despite these challenges, the study's findings underscore the effectiveness of amphotericin B and clotrimazole against a variety of moulds, except for Fusarium spp. It calls for larger, more comprehensive studies to establish clearer guidelines for antifungal treatments and enhance the existing antifungal database in Malaysia.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What was the aim of the study on antifungal agents?
The study aimed to determine the minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of various antifungal agents against moulds isolated from dermatological specimens, providing better guidance for effective clinical treatment.
What methods were used to identify moulds in the study?
The study identified 29 moulds from dermatological specimens using conventional macroscopic and microscopic methods, including culturing on specific agar and conducting antifungal susceptibility testing according to CLSI guidelines.
Which antifungal agents were tested in the study?
Six antifungal agents were tested: amphotericin B, clotrimazole, itraconazole, ketoconazole, miconazole, and terbinafine, to analyze their effectiveness against isolated moulds extracted from patient specimens.
What were the key findings regarding the effectiveness of antifungals?
Amphotericin B and clotrimazole were the most effective antifungal agents, particularly against dermatophytes. Terbinafine showed reduced effectiveness, especially against Trichophyton rubrum, highlighting the need for tailored treatment strategies.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “In Vitro Antifungal Activity Against Moulds from Skin Specimens”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Study (Studying):
The 'Study' refers to an organized inquiry aimed at understanding the effectiveness of various antifungal agents against moulds isolated from dermatological specimens. In research, a study is crucial for gathering data, analyzing results, and potentially guiding medical treatments. It contributes to the broader knowledge of fungal infections and their management.
2) Drug:
A 'Drug' is any substance used in the diagnosis, treatment, or prevention of disease. In this context, it specifically refers to antifungal medications assessed for their efficacy against dermatophytes and other moulds. Understanding drug interactions, effectiveness, and resistance patterns is vital for optimizing treatment strategies in clinical settings.
3) Table:
'Table' typically refers to a systematic arrangement of data. In scientific studies, tables summarize findings, such as minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of various drugs against specific fungal species. They facilitate quick reference and comparison, allowing researchers and clinicians to visualize complex results and trends more easily.
4) Activity:
'Activity' in this context denotes the effectiveness of antifungal agents against different moulds. Antifungal activity is quantified through measures such as MICs. Understanding the activity of drugs is vital for selecting appropriate treatments for fungal infections, influencing clinical decisions and patient outcomes significantly.
5) Species:
In biological terminology, 'Species' refers to a distinct group of organisms capable of interbreeding. This study examines the susceptibility of various fungal species to antifungal drugs. Identifying species correctly is essential for understanding their characteristics, pathogenicity, and appropriate therapeutic interventions.
6) Disease:
'Disease' refers to any abnormal condition affecting the body, often associated with specific symptoms. In the context of this study, diseases caused by mould infections are of primary concern. Understanding the relationship between fungal infections and disease progression helps in developing effective treatment protocols.
7) Wall:
'Wall', in a biological context, can refer to the structure surrounding fungal cells, often composed of polysaccharides. The cell wall's integrity is crucial for maintaining cellular functions and is a target for some antifungal drugs. Alterations in wall composition can affect susceptibility to treatments.
8) Pharmacological:
'Pharmacological' pertains to the study of drugs and their effects on biological systems. This term is essential in understanding how antifungal agents interact with fungal cells, their mechanisms of action, and potential side effects, guiding clinicians in prescribing effective therapies tailored to individual patient needs.
9) Indian:
'Indian' refers to aspects relating to India, including cultural, historical, or geographical contexts. In this study, references may pertain to methodology or results derived from research conducted within India, which can provide insights about local fungal strains and their treatment responses, enriching global understanding.
10) Egypt:
'Egypt' can signify the country, representing a geographical context. Similar to 'Indian', it can denote medical research originating here, contributing to the global knowledge pool regarding fungal infections, epidemiology, and treatment efficacy across various populations and geographical locations.
11) Panda (Pamda):
'Panda' often refers to a species of bear, but in this context, it may represent the last name of an author or researcher contributing to the study. Academic contributions can significantly influence research outcomes and the dissemination of findings across various scientific communities.
12) India:
'India' denotes the nation and might be referenced regarding its public health data, research contributions, and unique fungal strains present in the region. Understanding India's health landscape aids in contextualizing study findings within a broader international framework of antifungal susceptibility.
13) Kumar:
'Kumar' is a common surname in South Asia, possibly linked to one of the researchers involved in the study. Recognizing contributors is vital in scientific research, as individual expertise and perspectives play a crucial role in shaping study design, execution, and results interpretation.
14) Cutan:
'Cutan' relates to the skin, derived from Latin. In dermatological research, it often characterizes conditions affecting the skin. This relevance underscores the study's focus on fungal infections of the skin, accentuating the importance of understanding antifungal treatments for dermatological applications.
15) Ter:
'Ther' generally refers to therapy or therapeutic interventions. This is crucial in the context of this study, as it highlights the therapeutic options available for treating fungal infections. Understanding therapeutic efficacy supports clinicians in making informed decisions to enhance patient care.
16) Discussion:
'Discussion' is a critical section in research papers where findings are interpreted and contextualized. Here, researchers synthesize results with existing knowledge, explore implications, and suggest future research directions. It plays a vital role in shaping the understanding of study outcomes within the larger field of antifungal research.
17) Science (Scientific):
'Scientific' pertains to the systematic study of the structure and behavior of the physical and natural world through observation and experiment. In this context, scientific methods are employed to rigorously assess antifungal susceptibility, reinforcing the reliability and validity of the study's findings.
18) Attending:
'Attending' in this context may refer to individuals present during the study or treatment procedures. In healthcare, attending professionals play a critical role in patient care and treatment protocols, influencing outcomes through their expertise and interactions with patients in clinical settings.
19) Observing:
'Observing' indicates the act of monitoring and noting phenomena, crucial in scientific research for gathering data. In this study, observation is vital for assessing fungal growth and the effectiveness of antifungal treatments, leading to evidence-based conclusions regarding clinical practices.
20) Teaching:
'Teaching' denotes the act of imparting knowledge or skills. In a medical context, teaching is essential for educating healthcare providers about fungal infections and their treatments, ensuring that the latest research findings are disseminated to improve patient care and clinical practices.
21) Quality:
'Quality' refers to the degree of excellence or standard of something. In research, quality of data and methodology is paramount for drawing valid conclusions. This study's quality measures influence the credibility of the results and their applicability in clinical practice.
22) Company:
'Company' usually denotes a business entity. Here, it may indicate pharmaceutical companies that provide antifungal agents. Collaborations with such companies can enhance research capabilities, offering access to resources and innovations that support antifungal drug development and efficacy studies.
23) Medium:
'Medium' refers to a substance in which organisms grow or are cultured. In microbiology, selecting the appropriate culture medium is crucial for isolating fungi accurately and assessing their susceptibility to antifungal agents, impacting the outcomes and reliability of the study.
24) Powder:
'Powder' relates to the form of antifungal agents, as many drugs are provided in powdered form before preparation for use. Understanding how drugs are handled and their formulations is essential for ensuring accurate dosing and effectiveness in treating fungal infections.
25) Cotton:
'Cotton' could refer to cotton fibers used in laboratory settings for various applications, including specimen collection. In microbiology, sterile materials for sampling are essential to prevent contamination, influencing the validity of results obtained in clinical studies.
26) Rules:
'Rules' denote established guidelines or protocols in research. Adhering to rules in study design and methodology ensures ethical practices and enhances the credibility of the findings. They serve as a framework for conducting experiments and interpreting results meaningfully.
27) Hair:
'Hair' refers to the keratinous outgrowth found on the skin of mammals, including humans. In dermatological contexts, hair can be a site of fungal infections, especially by dermatophytes. Understanding hair involvement is critical for diagnosing and managing clinical cases of fungal infections.
28) Post:
'Post' can indicate various interpretations, but it might refer to the publication of research findings. In the academic context, posting results in journals or conferences helps disseminate knowledge and advances understanding of antifungal susceptibility among practitioners and researchers.
Other Science Concepts:
Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘In Vitro Antifungal Activity Against Moulds from Skin Specimens’. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:
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