A Pediatric Case of Basidiobolomycosis Presenting With an Abdominal Mass

Abstract

Basidiobolomycosis is a rare fungal infection caused by Basidiobolus ranarum. The condition has been reported in children and adults presenting with abdominal pain, weight loss, abdominal distension, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, and an abdominal mass. We report a case of a previously healthy 2.5 years old male who presented to the ER complaining of abdominal pain and distension for two weeks together with significant weight loss. He looked ill and cachectic. He had tachycardia but was afebrile. His abdominal examination showed a right-sided abdominal mass. His initial abdominal ultrasound (US) suggested an abdominal tumor. The patient was referred to a tertiary center where he had an ultrasound-guided biopsy that showed fungal hyphae consistent with basidiobolomycosis.

Incidental Appendiceal Basidiobolomycosis in a Clinical Setting of Intestinal Intussusception in a Five-Year-Old Patient: A Case Report

“…The majority of basidiobolomycosis cases have been diagnosed in tropical and subtropical regions with warm, humid climates; many animals in such areas are assumed to be carriers of such fungi [ 2 ]. Basidiobolus ranarum is an environmental saprophyte found in decaying vegetable matter, soil, and the alimentary tract of infected amphibians (e.g., frogs), reptiles (e.g., lizards and geckos), horses, dogs, and bats [ 4 , 6 ]. Basidiobolomycosis primarily presents as a subcutaneous tissue infection involving the extremities, trunk, or buttocks.…”