Blastomycosis of bones and joints
Mark Oppenheimer1, John M Embil, Brian Black
1Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canad.
Southern Medical Journal
|June 27, 2007
Summary
Blastomycosis of bones and joints, a fungal infection, commonly affects men and non-Aboriginal individuals. Early diagnosis is crucial as osseous blastomycosis can mimic bacterial infections.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
- Orthopedic Surgery
Background:
- Blastomycosis is a systemic fungal infection caused by *Blastomyces dermatitidis*.
- Osseous involvement, including osteomyelitis and septic arthritis, is a significant manifestation.
- Prompt recognition is essential for effective management and to prevent complications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the clinical characteristics and outcomes of patients hospitalized with osseous or articular blastomycosis.
- To identify demographic and clinical factors associated with delayed diagnosis.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective study of 45 patients with blastomycosis of bones or joints.
- Analysis of patient demographics, clinical presentation, sites of involvement, and treatment outcomes.
Main Results:
- 41 cases of osteomyelitis and 12 cases of septic arthritis were identified.
- Men and non-Aboriginal patients constituted the majority.
- Shorter symptom-to-hospitalization times were observed in women and Aboriginal patients.
- Cutaneous and lung involvement were common comorbidities.
- Lower limb and axial skeleton were most frequently affected osseous sites.
Conclusions:
- Osseous blastomycosis presents with diverse orthopedic symptoms and can mimic bacterial infections.
- It should be considered in the differential diagnosis of bone and joint infections in endemic areas.
- Timely diagnosis and treatment are vital for favorable outcomes.
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