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Ultrastructure of black piedra
H L de Almeida Júnior1, A Salebian, E A Rivitti
1Department of Dermatology, University of São Paulo, Brazil.
Mycoses
|November 1, 1991
Summary
Black piedra, a fungal hair infection caused by Piedraia hortai, invades hair keratin and spreads via spores. Microscopic analysis reveals its complex structure and reproductive methods, aiding disease transmission.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Dermatology
- Microbiology
Background:
- Black piedra, or nodular trichomycosis, is a superficial fungal infection affecting hair shafts.
- It is commonly found in tropical regions of South America and Asia.
- The causative agent is the fungus Piedraia hortai.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the ultrastructural characteristics of Piedraia hortai.
- To elucidate the mechanisms of hair invasion and spore dissemination.
- To understand the reproductive strategies of the fungus.
Main Methods:
- Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) for visualizing hair invasion and spore elimination.
- Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) for detailed ultrastructural analysis of fungal components.
- Microscopic examination of fungal reproduction.
Main Results:
- SEM revealed invasion of hair keratin and spore expulsion through canals.
- TEM demonstrated a complex fungal microsystem with cement-producing hyphae forming pseudoparenchyma.
- Both sexual (ascospores within asci) and asexual (arthrospores) reproduction were observed.
- Arthrospores undergo gemmation and are released through canals for disease dissemination.
Conclusions:
- Piedraia hortai exhibits a sophisticated structure and reproductive cycle.
- Understanding these mechanisms is crucial for comprehending the pathogenesis and transmission of black piedra.
- Microscopic techniques provide valuable insights into fungal-hair interactions.