Nonhealing scalp wound infected with Aspergillus niger in an elderly patient

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Mycology
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Cutaneous aspergillosis is typically observed in immunocompromised individuals.
• It presents as a rare skin infection.
• This case highlights an unusual presentation in an immunocompetent host.

Observation:

• An elderly, immunocompetent patient developed a nonhealing scalp wound after surgery for cutaneous malignancy.
• Fungal culture identified Aspergillus niger as the causative agent.
• The wound failed to heal despite standard care.

Findings:

• Primary cutaneous aspergillosis was diagnosed in an immunocompetent elderly patient.
• Aspergillus niger was successfully eradicated from the nonhealing scalp wound.
• Combined topical therapy with retapamulin ointment and ketoconazole gel achieved complete wound resolution.

Implications:

• This case expands the understanding of cutaneous aspergillosis presentation and risk factors.
• It suggests that immunocompetent individuals can develop this infection, particularly with compromised skin barriers.
• The successful treatment highlights the efficacy of topical antifungal and antimicrobial agents in managing such rare infections.