Abstract

Recently, recalcitrant dermatophytosis has been a major concern among subjects. The perception of patients or hosts concerning recalcitrant dermatophytosis depicts the real assessment of host factors rooted deep and the ways to overcome the cultural and socio-economic milieu that hinders the prevention of recurrence and relapse of the infection. Aims: The present study aimed to assess the perception of understanding of causation, prevention, care seeking behaviour and personal hygiene in the subjects having recalcitrant dermatophytosis. Methods: Two groups having 24 subjects with recalcitrant dermatophytosis were assessed using a predetermined FGD (Focus Group Discussion) guide. Both sessions of FGD were recorded and transcribed. The verbatims were analyzed thematically and themes emerging were assessed using illustrative quotations. The data gathered were analyzed. Results: Disease is prevented with clothes drying and clothes washing with soap antiseptics. Disease spread with bathing in ponds using mustard oil and not changing undergarments for a long time. Also, the most common perception is household jobs causing tinea, outdoor playing, working in the sun for >5 hours, and staying in wet clothes. Five themes emerged after data pile sorting including care seeking behavior, the role of personal and traditional beliefs, prevention, understanding of the predisposing factors of the disease, and ignorance about the disease. Conclusion: It is needed critically to address the traditional beliefs and myths not having background scientific evidence. Expenses on dermatophytosis treatment warrant controlling the cost of antifungals prescribed commonly. Professional responsibilities and poor socio-economic status hinder the population from the implementation of preventive measures

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