Cutaneous blastomycosis in New Brunswick: case report

Area of Science:

• Mycology
• Infectious Diseases
• Clinical Medicine

Background:

• Blastomycosis is a deep fungal infection caused by Blastomyces dermatitidis.
• Typically affects immunocompetent individuals, but diagnosis can be challenging.
• Geographic distribution has historically been concentrated in specific North American regions.

Observation:

• A case of cutaneous blastomycosis was identified in New Brunswick, Canada.
• This presentation suggests a broader endemicity of the fungus in Atlantic Canada.
• The clinical presentation mimicked other dermatological conditions, delaying diagnosis.

Findings:

• The case confirms Blastomycosis dermatitidis endemicity in Atlantic Canada.
• Highlights the diagnostic challenges associated with cutaneous blastomycosis.
• Successful diagnosis relied on sustained clinical suspicion and laboratory support.

Implications:

• Clinicians in Atlantic Canada should consider blastomycosis in differential diagnoses.
• Increased awareness may improve early detection and patient outcomes.
• Further epidemiological studies are warranted to define the true extent of blastomycosis in the region.