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Histoplasmosis as cause of penile ulcer in acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS): three case reports

Ederson Valei Lopes de Oliveira1, Fernanda Belluci Miduati, João Roberto Antonio

  • 1Medical School in São José do Rio Preto, Hospital de Base, Avenida Brigadeiro Faria Lima, n. 5416, CEP 15090-000, Sao Jose do Rio Preto, SP, Brazil.

Mycopathologia
|October 16, 2007
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Genital ulcers caused by Histoplasma capsulatum are an uncommon presentation in patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Early diagnosis and treatment of this fungal infection in immunocompromised individuals can significantly improve outcomes.

Area of Science:

  • Mycology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Immunocompromised Host

Background:

  • Histoplasma capsulatum causes American histoplasmosis, a disseminated infection frequently seen in patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).
  • Disseminated histoplasmosis in HIV-positive individuals can manifest in diverse ways, affecting multiple organ systems.
  • Genital ulceration due to H. capsulatum presents a diagnostic challenge in AIDS patients due to a broad range of differential diagnoses.

Observation:

  • This report details three cases of histoplasmosis in patients diagnosed with AIDS.
  • Genital ulcers were an observed, unusual clinical manifestation in these patients.
  • Histopathologic examination, including Grocott staining and immunocytochemistry, was used for diagnosis.

Findings:

  • Histoplasmosis presenting as genital ulcers was observed in three patients with AIDS.
  • Successful treatment leading to complete cure was achieved in one of the reported cases.
  • The study highlights the varied clinical presentations of fungal infections in immunocompromised individuals.

Implications:

  • Recognizing the diverse pathologies of fungal infections in immunocompromised patients is crucial.
  • Prompt and accurate diagnosis of histoplasmosis, particularly in atypical presentations like genital ulcers, is essential.
  • Adherence to established treatment protocols can lead to improved prognosis for patients with disseminated fungal diseases.

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