Publication:

A questionnaire-based study on current trends and clinical decision drivers in the topical management of tinea infections: a cross-sectional study

Background Dermatophytosis is a common superficial fungal infection that has increasingly become recurrent and difficult to manage in routine clinical practice. However, multicentric real-world data on topical antifungal prescribing trends in India remain limited.

Methods This multicentric, cross-sectional, questionnaire-based study was conducted among 373 dermatologists across India to evaluate current prescribing trends and clinical decision drivers in the topical management of tinea infections, with particular emphasis on luliconazole use. Data regarding disease burden, treatment practices, combination therapy, and perceptions toward advanced topical formulations were collected using a structured electronic questionnaire and analyzed descriptively.

Results A substantial proportion of dermatologists reported that dermatophytosis accounted for 30% to 42% of routine outpatient consultations (42.09%). Poor hygiene (74.26%) and climatic factors (61.39%) were commonly perceived risk factors, while itching (94.10%) was the predominant symptom. Topical antifungal therapy was mainly preferred for localized lesions (58.45%). Luliconazole emerged as the preferred topical antifungal agent (22.25%), and 56.57% of dermatologists reported prescribing it in most patients. Combination therapy with systemic antifungal agents was frequently practiced (67.02%), particularly in recurrent or difficult-to-manage infections. High efficacy, better penetration, and improved spread ability were the most perceived benefits associated with technology-based topical formulations.

Conclusions Dermatophytosis continues to represent a substantial burden in routine dermatology practice in India. The findings highlight widespread use of luliconazole-based topical therapy and frequent adoption of combination treatment approaches, emphasizing the importance of individualized and rational management strategies in contemporary dermatophytosis care.