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Laboratory-acquired sporotrichosis
C R Cooper1, D M Dixon, I F Salkin
1Wadsworth Center for Laboratories and Research, New York State Department of Health, Albany 12201-0509.
Summary
A laboratory worker contracted sporotrichosis from Sporothrix schenckii isolates. This case suggests the fungus may infect intact skin without prior injury.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
- Clinical Microbiology
Background:
- Sporothrix schenckii is a fungus known to cause sporotrichosis, a skin infection.
- The 1988 USA sporotrichosis epidemic involved widespread human and feline infections.
Observation:
- A laboratory-acquired infection with Sporothrix schenckii occurred in a researcher.
- The infection was linked to handling isolates from the 1988 epidemic.
- No apparent trauma or predisposing factors were noted in the infected individual.
Findings:
- The case highlights a potential route of infection for Sporothrix schenckii.
- The fungus may be capable of penetrating healthy, intact skin.
- Laboratory-acquired infections underscore the need for stringent safety protocols.
Implications:
- This finding suggests that Sporothrix schenckii could pose a risk even through non-abraded skin.
- Enhanced biosafety measures may be necessary when working with Sporothrix schenckii.
- Further research is warranted to understand the mechanisms of fungal invasion through intact skin.