NGHIÊN CỨU TÌNH HÌNH, ĐẶC ĐIỂM LÂM SÀNG VÀ CHẤT LƯỢNG CUỘC SỐNG CỦA BỆNH NHÂN NHIỄM NẤM DA DO BÔI CORTICOSTEROID TẠI BỆNH VIỆN DA LIỄU THÀNH PHỐ CẦN THƠ NĂM 2025

Abstract

Background: Cutaneous fungal infections are common, especially in tropical countries such as Vietnam. Misuse of topical corticosteroids can alter clinical features, resulting in tinea incognito and complicating diagnosis, management, and quality of life of patients. Objectives: To determine the prevalence and associated factors of corticosteroid-induced tinea incognito; and to describe the clinical characteristics and quality of life of patients with corticosteroid-induced tinea incognito. Materials and methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted on 112 patients diagnosed with dermatophytosis who had a history of topical corticosteroid use and presented to Can Tho Dermato-Venereology Hospital in 2025. Diagnosis was based on clinical manifestations and direct microscopic examination of skin scales. Results: The 41-60 age group accounted for the highest proportion of patients (46.4%), with a comparable distribution between males and females. Overall, 84.8% of patients had a history of corticosteroid use prior to presentation, predominantly topical corticosteroids (89.5%). The most commonly used active agents were betamethasone/dexamethasone (55.8%), and the majority of patients used these medications based on advice from pharmacies (71.6%). The rate of positive direct microscopic fungal examination was 72.3%. Clinically, the most common lesions were erythematous patches with scaling and central clearing, and the most frequently affected site was the groin. A disease duration of ≥3 months significantly increased the risk of moderate-to-severe lesions (OR=11.93; p < 0.01). Lesion severity was significantly associated with the degree of quality-of-life impairment as measured by the DLQI (p < 0.001), whereas no such association was found with gender. Conclusions: Dermatophytosis associated with topical corticosteroid use often shows atypical features, leading to misdiagnosis and impaired quality of life; early accurate diagnosis is therefore essential for effective management.