Factors Associated With Quality of Life and Pruritus Among Adults With Tinea Infection Attending a Specialty Hospital in Andhra Pradesh, South India: A Cross-Sectional Study

IntroductionTinea infections, also known as dermatophytosis, are superficial infections that affect the skin, hair, and nails.These infections cause severe pruritus and visible lesions that lead to cosmetic embarrassment, significantly impacting quality of life (QoL).The objectives of the study were to describe the demographic, clinical, and hygiene-related characteristics of adults with tinea infections attending a specialty hospital in Andhra Pradesh, South India and to assess factors associated with QoL and pruritus severity among these patients. MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted over three months in the outpatient department of a specialty hospital in Andhra Pradesh, and 269 participants aged 18 years and above, clinically diagnosed with tinea infection, and suffering for at least one month were included.Data was collected using the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) and the 5-D Itch scale.Statistical analysis was performed using descriptive statistics, chi-square test, independent t-test, correlation and path analysis. ResultsMost participants were aged below 40 years (62.1%) and female (52.8%).The mean DLQI score was 10.97 (SD=4.63),with 42.4% experiencing a large effect on QoL.Significant factors associated with a large DLQI effect (combining very large and extremely large DLQI effect categories) included infection in two or more areas (aOR=2.01,95% CI: 1.07-3.78;p=0.031), infection duration over six months (aOR=1.90,95% CI: 1.11-3.23;p=0.019), and recurrent infections (aOR=1.70,95% CI: 1.00-2.87;p=0.049).The mean 5-D Itch score was significantly associated with multiple affected areas (p<0.001),longer infection duration (p<0.001),infrequent bathing, and sharing personal items like combs and towels (p<0.05).The DLQI and 5-D Itch scores had a significantly strong correlation (r=0.635,p<0.001). ConclusionTinea infections significantly impact patients' QoL, with multiple areas affected, longer infection duration, and recurrent infections being key factors.This study highlights the need for comprehensive interventions to address both medical and psychosocial aspects, improving overall patient well-being.