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Conjunctival rhinosporidiosis. Report of three cases from Zaire
T O Ukety1, K Kaimbo, A M Nelson
1Projet d'Ophtalmologie, Centre médical Evangélique, Nairobi, Kenya.
Abstract:
The authors report three cases of conjunctival rhinosporidiosis from Zaire, two of which are believed to be the first documented in the northeastern part of the country. All patients were males. Two patients were very young children, respectively 5 and 6 years old. The third patient was a 35-year-old man. The diagnosis was based on histopathology which revealed the characteristic features of Rhinosporidium seeberi. Total excision was the elective treatment. The disease recurred eleven months later in one case, probably from local dissemination of the parasite during surgery.
Insights
Conjunctival rhinosporidiosis, a rare fungal infection, was documented in three males in Zaire. Surgical excision is the primary treatment, though recurrence is possible due to parasite dissemination.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Rhinosporidiosis is a chronic granulomatous disease caused by Rhinosporidium seeberi.
- It commonly affects the nasal mucosa but can involve other sites, including the conjunctiva.
- Conjunctival rhinosporidiosis is rare, with limited case reports globally.
Observation:
- Three cases of conjunctival rhinosporidiosis were reported in Zaire.
- Two cases were documented in the northeastern region, potentially representing the first occurrences there.
- Affected patients included two young boys (5 and 6 years old) and a 35-year-old man.
Findings:
- Histopathological examination confirmed the presence of Rhinosporidium seeberi.
- Total surgical excision was performed as the primary treatment modality.
- One patient experienced disease recurrence 11 months post-surgery, likely due to local parasite dissemination during the procedure.
Implications:
- This report expands the geographical distribution of conjunctival rhinosporidiosis.
- Highlights the importance of complete surgical excision and awareness of potential recurrence.
- Emphasizes the need for vigilance in diagnosing and managing this rare ocular infection, particularly in endemic areas.