Prevalence and Factors Associated with Tinea Pedis and Tinea Unguium among Diabetic Patients in Saudi Arabia

Mohammed A. Alahmadi; Sara  Alghamdi; Zakaria Khawaji; Abdulelah Alraddadi; Ahmad M.  Ban; Amal Kokandi; Warda  Afifi; Ramy  Agwa

doi:10.54293/smhj.v6i2.154

Authors

Mohammed A. Alahmadi College of Medicine, Taibah University, Medina, KSA. https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6552-8795
Sara Alghamdi College of Medicine, Albaha University, Albaha, KSA.
Zakaria Khawaji College of Medicine, Taibah University, Medina, KSA.
Abdulelah Alraddadi College of Medicine, Taibah University, Medina, KSA.
Ahmad M. Ban College of Medicine, Taibah University, Medina, KSA. https://orcid.org/0009-0000-2189-0215
Amal Kokandi Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, KSA. https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9180-5207
Warda Afifi Department of Internal Medicine, Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Faculty of Medicine, Al-Baha University, Al-Baha, KSA.
Ramy Agwa Department of Internal Medicine, Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Faculty of Medicine, Al-Baha University, Al-Baha, KSA. https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3207-7486

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.54293/smhj.v6i2.154

Keywords:

Tinea Pedis, Tinea Unguium, Diabetes mellitus, Saudi Arabia, Prevalence, fungal infection.

Abstract

Background: Chronic hyperglycemia in diabetes mellitus impairs cellular immunity, phagocytic activities, and polymorphonuclear leukocytes, resulting in frequent incidence of cutaneous fungal infections with more severe clinical manifestations. In this paper, the aim was to evaluate the prevalence and factors associated with tinea pedis and Tinea Unguium among diabetic patients.

Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among Saudi adults aged 18 and above from all the regions of Saudi Arabia. Data were collected conveniently via structured questionnaires. Factors associated with the incidence of tinea unguium and tinea pedis were identified through Pearson’s chi-square test, univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis with p-value < 0.05 considered statistically significant.

Results: We included 2,952 participants, with 52% being female, 56.4% diabetes type 1, and 41.3% aged 18-30 years. Around 61% are unaware of tinea pedis, 15.1% reported a previous diagnosis of tinea pedis. Younger individuals (18–30 years) and unmarried participants showed higher infection rates, while normal BMI individuals were more affected compared to obese participants. Pet ownership and participation in sports such as swimming and basketball were significant risk factors. Additionally, the use of immunosuppressive medications and the presence of peripheral vascular disease significantly elevated the risk. Regular foot inspection was associated with higher infection rates, while consistent use of nail clippers and socks offered protective benefits.

Conclusions: Fungal infections were more frequently observed in patients with type 1 diabetes and those with poor glycemic control, whereas lower rates were noted among participants who reported adhering to good foot care practices. Therefore, promoting improved foot care and achieving optimal diabetes management are crucial for reducing the burden of these infections and their associated complications.