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Tibial osteomyelitis due to Fonsecaea pedrosoi in an immunocompetent patient: case report

Raju Karuppal1, Chathoth Meethal Kumaran, Anwar Marthya

  • 1Department of Orthopaedics, Medical College, Calicut, Kerala, India. drrajuortho@rediffmail.com

Abstract

Insights

Dematiaceous fungi like Fonsecaea pedrosoi can cause phaeohyphomycosis. This case highlights F. pedrosoi osteomyelitis in an immunocompetent patient, emphasizing diagnostic challenges and treatment complexities.

Area of Science:

  • Medical Mycology
  • Infectious Diseases

Background:

  • Dematiaceous fungi cause phaeohyphomycosis, with diverse clinical presentations.
  • Fonsecaea pedrosoi infections are increasing, especially in immunocompromised individuals.
  • F. pedrosoi can colonize normal skin.

Observation:

  • A case of F. pedrosoi osteomyelitis in an immunocompetent patient is presented.
  • This presentation is unusual as F. pedrosoi typically affects immunocompromised hosts.

Findings:

  • Definitive diagnosis requires tissue culture and pathological examination.
  • Distinguishing between infection and colonization is crucial for appropriate management.
  • Osteomyelitis caused by F. pedrosoi can occur in immunocompetent individuals.

Implications:

  • A high index of suspicion and routine fungal cultures are necessary for early identification.
  • Treatment involves antifungal drugs (e.g., itraconazole) and aggressive surgical debridement.
  • Optimal outcomes may be challenging due to the angioinvasive nature of F. pedrosoi.

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