Non-Dermatophyte as Pathogens of Onychomycosis among Elderly Diabetic Patients

Introduction:The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of causative non-dermatophyte as causative agents of onychomycosis in elderly diabetics from the Libya. Methods:The specimens were tested by direct microscopic examination using potassium hydroxide (20%) and culturing on Sabouraud’s dextrose agar and fungobiotic agar containing cyclohexamide and chloramphenicol. Results:The most common cause of mycotic diabetic patients is different species of non-dermatophyte moulds isolated from 48 cases (41%). Yeasts were isolated from twenty six patients (22%). Dermatophytes were detected in only four patients (4%), and mixed fungi 6 (5%).There was no fungal growth in 28% of cases. Conclusion:The most common cause of mycotic diabetic patients is different species of non-dermatophyte moulds. This study confirmed that diabetic patients are at a high risk of having or contracting onychomycosis. Managing onychomycosis in diabetics may require systemic antifungal treatment, physical measures and patient education.