The first reported case of terbinafine-resistant Trichophyton rubrum in Tunisia and its clinical implications - 30/03/26
, Sameh Belgacem b, d, Nesrine Ben Salah a, Sirine Bchir c, Mouna Hamouda c, Habib Skhiri c, Jameleddine Zili aHighlights |
• | Dermatophytosis is a highly prevalent superficial fungal infection. |
• | Trichophyton rubrum is the most frequently implicated pathogenic agent. |
• | We reported the first case of terbinafine-resistant Trichophyton rubrum in Tunisia. |
• | The identification of terbinafine resistance highlights an urgent need for enhanced surveillance and susceptibility testing protocols to inform treatment strategies effectively. |
Abstract |
Dermatophytosis is a common superficial fungal infection caused by dermatophytes. In recent years, antifungal resistance among dermatophytes has emerged as a growing clinical concern. We report the first documented case of terbinafine-resistant Trichophyton rubrum in Tunisia, occurring in a 50-year-old immunocompromised woman with systemic lupus erythematosus. She presented with a slightly scaly erythematous plaque in the inguinal folds, plantar hyperkeratosis on both feet, and onychodystrophy of the toenails. Despite topical terbinafine treatment, the patient experienced clinical progression. Antifungal susceptibility testing performed using the EUCAST E.Def 11.0 method demonstrated high minimum inhibitory concentrations to terbinafine and itraconazole. Molecular analysis identified the F397L substitution in the squalene epoxydase enzyme. Unfortunately, the patient died of heart failure. This case highlights the emergence of antifungal resistance in dermatophytes and underscores the need for routine susceptibility testing and surveillance programs.
Le texte complet de cet article est disponible en PDF.Keywords : Terbinafine, Itraconazole, Trichophyton rubrum, Resistance, Tunisia, Case report, SQLE gene
Plan
Vol 36 - N° 2
Article 101621- juin 2026 Retour au numéroBienvenue sur EM-consulte, la référence des professionnels de santé.
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