Abstract

Dr. Arumugakani V., Vaishnavi B. V., Nitish Kumar R., Sai Rishikaa S.* and Sindhuja R.

ABSTRACT

Background: The systemic antifungals such as fluconazole, itraconazole, terbinafine, griseofulvin are widely used for treating dermatophytosis. Here, the aim of the study is to evaluate the effectiveness of two oral antifungals: Terbinafine and Fluconazole. Methods: The study was conducted in the outpatient department of dermatology for a period of 6 months. Patients who are clinically diagnosed with dermatophytosis were selected after satisfying inclusion & Exclusion criteria and divided into two groups. Group A received Fluconazole 150mg thrice a week & Group B patients received Terbinafine 250mg daily. The participants were followed up for further evaluation. Results: In our study, the effectiveness of two oral antifungals was compared based on the observation of patients TSS (Total Symptom Score) and Extent of lesion score (BSA), which implied that both drugs are effective individually. In reduction of TSS, Group-B patients treated with terbinafine had greater effectiveness, that is a significant mean difference was observed in Group-B patients [7.83(baseline)→2.80(4th week)] compared to Group-A patients [7.00(baseline)→4.43(4th week)]. Also, Group-B patients who received Terbinafine had significant reduction of lesion score [1.8 (baseline) → 0.43 (4th week)] and they achieved more clearance of lesions compared to Group-A patients [1.36(baseline)→0.63(4th week)] who received fluconazole. P-value was found to be statistically significant. Conclusion: Here we conclude that both oral antifungals, fluconazole and terbinafine are effective in treatment. Nevertheless, Oral Terbinafine was found to be more effective than fluconazole in treating patients with dermatophytosis as it signifies good improvement in the clinical symptoms despite patient age, sex and duration of disease.