Rhinoentomophthoromycosis
Mathew M Thomas1, Sumangala M Bai, Chitra Jayaprakash
1Department of Dermatology, Dr. S. M. C. S. I. Medical College and Hospital, Karakonam, Trivandrum, Kerala, India. mathewtm_2000@yahoo.com
Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology
|August 2, 2006
Summary
Rhinoentomophthoromycosis, a fungal infection, was diagnosed in a patient with nasal swelling. Combination therapy with fluconazole and potassium iodide led to complete symptom resolution and CT-confirmed healing.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
- Dermatology
Background:
- Subcutaneous zygomycosis is a rare fungal infection that can affect the nose.
- Rhinoentomophthoromycosis is a specific type of subcutaneous zygomycosis caused by Conidiobolus coronatus.
Observation:
- A 60-year-old patient presented with a year-long history of slowly progressive nasal swelling.
- Clinical diagnosis suggested subcutaneous zygomycosis.
- Tissue fungal culture confirmed Conidiobolus coronatus, leading to a diagnosis of rhinoentomophthoromycosis.
Findings:
- The patient received a 5-month course of combination therapy: oral fluconazole and oral potassium iodide.
- Complete resolution of nasal swelling and symptoms was observed.
- Serial CT scans of the paranasal sinuses demonstrated gradual reduction of swelling, indicating treatment efficacy.
Implications:
- Early diagnosis and prompt combination therapy are crucial for successful management of rhinoentomophthoromycosis.
- This case highlights the effectiveness of fluconazole and potassium iodide in treating this fungal infection.
- This is the first reported case of rhinoentomophthoromycosis from Kerala, India, expanding the known geographical distribution of the disease.
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