Dermatophytes in healthy Chilians.

To study the presence of dermatophytes in healthy persons, 1060 skin samples from the scalp, complexion, inguinal region and sole were taken from 265 healthy individuals who live in Valdivia, Chile. The carpet technique of Mariat and Tapia was used. The isolated dermatophytes were identified according to Rebell and Taplin. Zoophilic dermatophytes were isolated in only 4.9% of the healthy individuals. Microsporum canis was found in the scalp and inguinal area of children (1.5%). Trichophyton mentagrophytes was isolated from the feet and inguinal skin of adults (3.4%). Measures to avoid a mycosis or/and to reduce the risk of infections are suggested.