Cutaneous Scedosporium apiospermum Infection in an Immunocompromised Patient and a Review of the Literature

Abstract

Scedosporium apiospermum (also known as Pseudallescheria boydii) is a ubiquitous filamentous fungus. This fungus is known as a cause of mycetoma, which may occur in a normally immune host following trauma. However, in an immunocompromised host, S. apiospermum may cause a life-threatening infection. We describe a case of S. apiospermum infection of the right hand in a patient who was receiving long-term immunosuppressants for adult Still's disease. We also review the cases of S. apiospermum infection with cutaneous manifestations reported between 1998 and 2003.

Scedosporium apiospermum: changing clinical spectrum of a therapy-refractory opportunist*

“…Cutaneous infections are infrequent and mostly are associated with immunodepression [55,191], e.g., in solid transplant recipients [192]. An interdigital case was reported by Karaarslan et al .…”

Multifocal Scedosporium apiospermum spondylitis in a cystic fibrosis patient

“…Such conditions occur after a local trauma in immunocompetent hosts. Dissemination may be contiguous or haematogenous, particularly in immunocompromised patients [6]. Diagnosis is difficult and often delayed due to negative cultures [7].…”

Tenosynovitis caused by Scedosporium apiospermum infection misdiagnosed as an Alternaria species: a case report

“…There is no consensus on the appropriate treatment of dematiaceous fungi infections [14]. Surgical intervention is an important element in the successful treatment of dermal and epidermal infections [15].…”