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Invasive cutaneous infection caused by Apophysomyces elegans associated with a spider bite

Marcos Saravia-Flores, Dennya M Guaran, Victor Argueta

    Mycoses
    |April 25, 2009
    PubMed

    Insights

    Zygomycete fungal infections, like Apophysomyces elegans, can have severe consequences. This case highlights a fatal deep tissue infection in a healthy woman following a spider bite, emphasizing rare but serious risks.

    Area of Science:

    • Medical Mycology
    • Infectious Diseases
    • Dermatology

    Background:

    • Zygomycetes are fungi that can cause infections, often with severe outcomes.
    • Cutaneous infections by Zygomycetes are increasingly reported in warm climates, particularly after skin barrier injury.
    • Apophysomyces elegans is a rare Zygomycete pathogen in humans.

    Observation:

    • A case report details a 30-year-old woman with a deep tissue infection.
    • The infection was caused by Apophysomyces elegans.
    • The infection was associated with a spider bite and a compromised cutaneous barrier.

    Findings:

    • Apophysomyces elegans can cause deep tissue infections in healthy individuals.
    • Infection by A. elegans following a spider bite can lead to a fatal outcome.
    • This case underscores the potential severity of Zygomycete infections.

    Implications:

    • Clinicians should consider Zygomycete infections in patients with relevant exposure history and skin lesions.
    • Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for managing these rare but dangerous fungal infections.
    • Increased awareness of Apophysomyces elegans as a pathogen is warranted, especially in endemic regions.

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