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Otitis caused by Scedosporium apiospermum in an immunocompetent child

H S Bhally1, C Shields, S Y Lin

  • 1Division of Microbiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, USA. hbhally@hotmail.com

International Journal of Pediatric Otorhinolaryngology
|June 9, 2004
PubMed

Insights

Scedosporium apiospermum, a rare cause of ear infections, was successfully treated in an 8-year-old boy using surgery and antifungal medication. This case highlights a rare fungal pathogen in an immunocompetent host.

Area of Science:

  • Mycology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Otolaryngology

Background:

  • Scedosporium apiospermum (Pseudallescheria boydii) is a widespread mold.
  • It is an emerging pathogen, particularly in immunocompromised individuals.
  • Otomycosis caused by S. apiospermum is exceptionally rare.

Observation:

  • An 8-year-old immunocompetent male presented with otitis media and otitis externa.
  • The infection was diagnosed as Scedosporium apiospermum.

Findings:

  • The patient received a combination of surgical debridement and topical clotrimazole.
  • This treatment regimen resulted in a successful recovery.
  • The case represents a rare instance of S. apiospermum causing otologic infections in an immunocompetent host.

Implications:

  • This case expands the known clinical spectrum of S. apiospermum infections.
  • It underscores the importance of considering fungal etiologies even in immunocompetent patients with otologic complaints.
  • The successful treatment highlights effective therapeutic options for this rare condition.

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