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Primary cutaneous opportunistic mold infections in a pediatric population

Rajani Katta1, Melissa A Bogle, Moise L Levy

  • 1Department of Dermatology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA.

Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology
|July 16, 2005
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Cutaneous opportunistic mold infections in children are rare but serious, particularly in premature or immunocompromised individuals. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for favorable outcomes in pediatric patients.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Dermatology
  • Mycology
  • Infectious Diseases

Background:

  • Cutaneous opportunistic mold infections are uncommon in children.
  • Risk factors and outcomes in pediatric populations are not well-defined.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To describe the characteristics of cutaneous opportunistic mold infections in a pediatric cohort.
  • Identify risk factors, causative agents, and outcomes.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective review of computerized pathology records (1991-2000) at Texas Children's Hospital.
  • Inclusion criteria: histologic confirmation of hyphae in skin biopsy specimens.
  • Medical record review for clinical data.

Main Results:

  • 11 cases in neonates and 22 in children/adolescents identified.
  • Neonatal risk factors: prematurity, low birth weight. Non-neonatal risk factors: malignancies, transplantation.
  • Mortality: 64% in neonates, 18% in non-neonates.

Conclusions:

  • Cutaneous opportunistic mold infections in children present unique risk factors and outcomes.
  • Appropriate diagnosis and therapy lead to favorable outcomes, even in immunocompromised children.

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