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Trichophyton rubrum abscesses in immunocompromised patients. A case report
J Faergemann1, H Gisslén, E Dahlberg
1Department of Dermatology, University of Göteborg, Sahlgrenska Sjukhuset, Sweden.
Acta Dermato-Venereologica
|January 1, 1989
Summary
A rare Trichophyton rubrum abscess infection occurred in an immunocompromised patient with myelodysplastic syndrome. This case highlights the need to consider fungal abscesses in immunocompromised individuals with superficial dermatophyte infections.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Immunocompromised individuals, particularly those with hematologic malignancies like myelodysplastic syndrome, are susceptible to opportunistic infections.
- Superficial dermatophyte infections are common but typically do not present as abscesses.
Observation:
- A 72-year-old immunocompromised male with myelodysplastic syndrome presented with multiple erythematous, scaly, abscess-like lesions on his left foot and lower leg.
- The patient also exhibited dry, scaly lesions on his soles and nail involvement.
Findings:
- Punch biopsy revealed abscesses containing fungal elements.
- Culture of skin scales and biopsy specimens identified Trichophyton rubrum as the causative agent.
- The clinical presentation and microbiological findings confirmed a diagnosis of T. rubrum abscesses.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering deep fungal infections, such as T. rubrum abscesses, in immunocompromised patients presenting with atypical superficial dermatophyte infections.
- Early and accurate diagnosis is crucial for appropriate management and to prevent potential complications in this vulnerable patient population.