Chromoblastomycosis

Chromoblastomycosis

Chromoblastomycosis (pronounced: kroh-moh-blas-toh-my-KOH-sis) is a chronic fungal infection of the skin and subcutaneous tissue. It is caused by several types of dematiaceous fungi, which are characterized by their dark pigmented spores and hyphae.

Etymology

The term "Chromoblastomycosis" is derived from the Greek words "chroma" meaning color, "blastos" meaning germ, and "mycosis" meaning fungal infection. This refers to the characteristic brown to black pigmented fungal elements seen in the infected tissues.

Causes

Chromoblastomycosis is caused by several types of dematiaceous (darkly pigmented) fungi. The most common causative organisms include Fonsecaea pedrosoi, Cladophialophora carrionii, and Phialophora verrucosa. These fungi are found in soil, wood, and decaying plant material, and infection usually occurs following traumatic implantation of the fungi into the skin.

Symptoms

The primary symptom of chromoblastomycosis is the development of warty skin lesions, typically on the legs or feet. These lesions may be itchy and can become secondarily infected with bacteria. Over time, the disease can cause lymphedema (swelling due to lymphatic obstruction) and elephantiasis (extreme swelling and hardening of the skin and underlying tissues).

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of chromoblastomycosis is based on clinical presentation, histopathological examination of skin biopsies, and culture of the causative organism. The characteristic finding is the presence of "sclerotic bodies" or "Medlar bodies" in the tissue, which are thick-walled, brown-pigmented fungal cells.

Treatment

Treatment of chromoblastomycosis can be challenging and typically involves a combination of antifungal medications and surgical intervention. Commonly used antifungal agents include itraconazole, terbinafine, and amphotericin B. In severe cases, surgical excision or cryotherapy may be necessary.

Related Terms

• Mycosis
• Fungal infection
• Dematiaceous fungi
• Lymphedema
• Elephantiasis

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Chromoblastomycosis
• Wikipedia's article - Chromoblastomycosis

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