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Published on: October 28, 2021
Fusarium Solani: a causative agent of skin and nail infections
Thomas S Kuruvilla1, Meena Dias
1Department of Microbiology, Father Muller Medical College, Mangalore, Karnataka, India. thomssk@yahoo.com
Abstract:
Fusarium spp are non-dermatophytic hyaline moulds found as saprophytes and plant pathogens. Human infections are probably a result of various precipitating predisposing factors of impaired immune status. Immunocompetent individuals of late are also vulnerable to various unassuming saprophytic and plant pathogens. To stress the need to identify correctly and institute appropriate antifungal therapy in newly emerging human fungal infectious agents. Repeated mycological sampling of the skin and nails of the suspected fungal infection were processed as per the standard format including direct microscopy and fungal culture on Sabouraud's dextrose agar. The fungus was isolated as Fusarium solani. Fusarium is an important plant pathogen and soil saprophyte. Infection is acquired by direct inoculation or inhalation of spores. It is associated with a variety of diseases like keratitis, onychomycosis, eumycetoma, skin lesions and disseminated diseases.
Insights
Fusarium solani, a plant pathogen, can cause serious human fungal infections, even in immunocompetent individuals. Accurate identification and antifungal treatment are crucial for emerging fungal agents.
Area of Science:
- Medical Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Fusarium spp. are common saprophytes and plant pathogens.
- Human infections typically occur in immunocompromised individuals.
- Emerging cases show immunocompetent individuals are also susceptible to Fusarium infections.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the increasing risk of Fusarium infections in humans.
- To emphasize the importance of accurate identification of Fusarium species.
- To underscore the need for appropriate antifungal therapy in emerging fungal infections.
Main Methods:
- Mycological sampling of skin and nail lesions.
- Direct microscopy and fungal culture on Sabouraud's dextrose agar.
- Isolation and identification of Fusarium solani.
Main Results:
- Fusarium solani was successfully isolated from suspected human infections.
- This fungus, typically a plant pathogen, demonstrated pathogenic potential in humans.
- Infections were acquired through direct inoculation or spore inhalation.
Conclusions:
- Fusarium solani poses a significant threat as a human pathogen.
- Early and correct identification is vital for effective treatment.
- Further research into Fusarium-related human diseases is warranted.
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