## Epidemiology of Tinea Corporis in India **Key Point:** Trichophyton rubrum is the most common dermatophyte causing tinea corporis globally and in India, accounting for approximately 60–70% of cases. ### Geographic and Climatic Factors T. rubrum thrives in warm, humid tropical and subtropical climates, making it the predominant species in India. It is an anthropophilic dermatophyte with high transmissibility. ### Comparison of Common Dermatophytes | Dermatophyte | Habitat | Geographic Prevalence | Clinical Presentation | |---|---|---|---| | T. rubrum | Anthropophilic | Worldwide, especially tropics | Chronic, widespread tinea corporis | | T. mentagrophytes | Zoophilic/Anthropophilic | Temperate regions | Acute, inflammatory lesions | | T. violaceum | Anthropophilic | Middle East, Africa, Asia | Tinea capitis (scalp), rare in corporis | | M. canis | Zoophilic | Associated with animal contact | Acute, highly inflammatory | **High-Yield:** T. rubrum is the single most important dermatophyte in clinical practice. It causes chronic, slowly progressive infections and is notoriously difficult to treat due to high relapse rates. **Clinical Pearl:** T. rubrum infections often present with a well-demarcated, scaly, erythematous patch with a raised border and central clearing ("ringworm" appearance). The chronicity and widespread nature distinguish it from the more acute presentations of T. mentagrophytes. [cite:Park 26e Ch 16] 
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