Epidemiological and Molecular Characterization of Trichophyton Species Associated with Dermatophytoses in Northeast Nigeria

Background Dermatophytoses are superficial fungal infections affecting skin, hair, and nails. Trichophyton species are the primary causative agents of these infections. Despite their burden, diagnosis in many settings remains limited to conventional methods, often leading to misidentification and inadequate treatment. This study investigated the prevalence, molecular characteristics, and risk factors associated with Trichophyton-related dermatophytosis among patients in the selected health facility in northeast Nigeria. Methods A cross-sectional study involving 385 patients with clinical signs of dermatophytoses was conducted at the Infectious Disease Hospital, Bayara. Samples were analyzed using conventional microscopy and culture. Molecular identification was performed via PCR amplification of the 18S rRNA gene using ITS primers. Epidemiological data were collected using structured questionnaires and analyzed statistically using SPSS version 23. Results The overall prevalence of Trichophyton-related infections was 24.94%, with T. rubrum (21.82%) more common than T. soudanense (3.12%). Molecular analysis confirmed two strains of T. rubrum and one strain of T. soudanense . Significant risk factors included regular contact with animals, low socioeconomic status, irregular bathing, communal living, and outdoor labor. Logistic regression identified these as strong predictors of infection (p < 0.05). Conclusion The study underscored the public health importance of Trichophyton infections in northeast Nigeria, with T. rubrum being the predominant species. Molecular techniques improved species identification accuracy. Effective control measures should focus on hygiene education, environmental sanitation, and targeted public health interventions in high-risk populations. Clinical trial number: Not applicable.