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Vulvar histoplasmosis as a rare cause of genital ulceration

Megan M Shine1, Monjri M Shah, Courtney A Hanna

  • 1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama.

Obstetrics and Gynecology
|July 26, 2013
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Disseminated histoplasmosis can manifest as a rare vulvar lesion in immunocompromised individuals. Early diagnosis and antifungal treatment are crucial for resolving this potentially fatal infection.

Area of Science:

  • Mycology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Dermatology

Background:

  • Histoplasmosis, caused by Histoplasma capsulatum, typically affects the lungs.
  • Disseminated histoplasmosis poses a significant risk to immunocompromised individuals, potentially leading to fatal outcomes if untreated.

Observation:

  • A case study of a 50-year-old woman with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) presented with a vulvar lesion mimicking carcinoma.
  • Diagnostic workup revealed disseminated histoplasmosis as the cause, notably without pulmonary involvement.

Findings:

  • The patient received a prolonged course of antifungal therapy.
  • Complete resolution of the vulvar lesion was achieved following treatment.

Implications:

  • Vulvar histoplasmosis is an uncommon but critical consideration in the differential diagnosis of vulvar pathology, especially in immunocompromised patients.
  • This case highlights the importance of considering non-pulmonary presentations of disseminated fungal infections in at-risk populations.

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