Abstract:
Abstract
Introduction: Tinea capitis is a dermatophyte infection of the scalp and hair. It is most
commonly observed in children between the ages of 3 and 14 years. Transmission is
increased with decreased personal hygiene, overcrowding, and low socioeconomic status
Objective: The objective of the study was to determine the prevalence and factors
associated with tinea capitis in school-age children in the University of Gondar
comprehensive specialized hospital, North West Ethiopia 2021.
Methods: Institutional-based cross-sectional study design was implemented among 285
children in the UGCSH from July 1 to September 30 2021 using a systematic random
sampling technique. Data was collected using an interviewer-administered structured
questionnaire which was pretested and used the physical examination. The collected data
was entered into epi info 7 and then entered and analyzed by SPSS version 20. Variables
with a p-value less than or equal to 0.2 in binary logistic regression were included in
multivariable logistic regressions. The associations and their strength were presented
using odds ratios with a 95% confidence interval. The significance was declared at a pvalue of less than 0.05. The Goodness of fit was checked using Hosmer and Lemeshow
test. The result of the analysis was presented using tables, charts, graphs, and texts
Results: The prevalence of tinea capitis among school aged children was 62.8% (CI:
56.9%-68.4%). Tinea capitis is significantly associated with age between 7-10 (AOR=4.72
95% CI: (2.12,10.57)) and between 3-6 (AOR= 4, 95% CI: (1.82,8.79)) and monthly family
income of 1001-3000 (AOR=4.89, 95% CI: (2.13-11.25)) and 3001-5000 (AOR= 2.4, 95%
CI: (1.05-5.47))
Conclusions: The prevalence of tinea capitis in this study was high. Age and monthly
family income were significantly associated with the prevalence of tinea capitis. Making
drugs available at UGCSH and pharmacies found in the town that is used to treat tinea
capitis at an affordable price so that every family can buy and use the medications. Doing
so may lead to a decrease in the prevalence of tinea capitis
Key-words: Prevalence, Tinea Capitis, school-age children, University of Gondar
comprehensive specialized hospital
