Dermatophytes in Argentina: species distribution, comparative identification accuracy of conventional and proteomic methods, introduction of a novel molecular identification approach, and antifungal susceptibility profiles

ABSTRACT Dermatophytosis is a frequent superficial fungal infection, yet data from Argentina remain scarce. In this multicenter study, 127 isolates consecutively collected in 2024 were analyzed using morphology, matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry, internal transcribed spacer sequencing, and a novel multiplex PCR assay for rapid identification. Predominant species included Trichophyton tonsurans , Trichophyton rubrum , and the Trichophyton mentagrophytes complex. Antifungal testing (CLSI M38) revealed interspecies variability: terbinafine was most active, itraconazole showed better efficacy against Microsporum canis , while fluconazole displayed limited activity.