Real-time PCR approach in dermatophyte detection and Trichophyton rubrum identification

Dermatophytes are keratinophilic molds that infect human hair, nails and skin. Diagnosis of dermatophytosis is based on morphological, serological and biochemical features. However, identification is difficult and laborious due to similarities between microorganisms. Thus, there is considerable interest to develop mycological diagnostic procedures based on molecular biology methods. In this study, fast, two-step DNA extraction method and real-time PCR was used for detection of dermatophytes DNA using pan-dermatophyte primers and identification of Trichophyton rubrum from pure cultures. The applied method allowed correct detection of all dermatophytes and correct identification of Trichophyton rubrum in less than 2 hours.