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Cutaneous blastomycosis: a clue to a systemic disease
Alex G Ortega-Loayza1, Tuyet Nguyen
1Virginia Comonwealth University (VCU) – Richmond, VA 23298, USA. aortegaloayza2@mcvh-vcu.edu
Anais Brasileiros De Dermatologia
|June 7, 2013
Summary
Disseminated blastomycosis, a fungal infection, can affect multiple organs, including the spine and skin. Early diagnosis and treatment with antifungal medications led to a full recovery in this case.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
- Clinical Case Study
Background:
- Blastomycosis is a systemic fungal infection caused by Blastomyces dermatitidis.
- It primarily affects the lungs but can disseminate to other organs, including the skin and bone.
- Disseminated blastomycosis can present with varied clinical manifestations, posing diagnostic challenges.
Observation:
- A 55-year-old male presented with back pain and facial lesions.
- Skin biopsy showed yeast with broad-based buds, characteristic of Blastomyces.
- CT scan revealed a T12 vertebral fracture, and spinal tissue confirmed fungal presence.
Findings:
- The patient was diagnosed with disseminated blastomycosis involving the skin and spine.
- Microscopic examination of tissue samples confirmed the presence of Blastomyces yeast.
- Radiological findings indicated bone involvement secondary to the fungal infection.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of considering disseminated fungal infections in patients with unexplained back pain and skin lesions.
- Prompt diagnosis and appropriate antifungal therapy are crucial for successful treatment outcomes.
- Disseminated blastomycosis requires a multidisciplinary approach for effective management and recovery.
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