Perianal North American blastomycosis

Area of Science:

• Mycology
• Infectious Diseases
• Dermatology

Background:

• Cutaneous North American blastomycosis commonly arises from pulmonary infection via hematogenous spread.
• Lesions typically manifest as verrucous or ulcerative plaques near respiratory tract orifices.

Observation:

• A 57-year-old man presented with a distinct, firm, moist, verrucous perianal plaque.
• This occurred four months after symptoms of a prolonged upper respiratory infection.

Findings:

• The patient was diagnosed with cutaneous North American blastomycosis.
• The perianal skin presentation, while rare, was attributed to dissemination of Blastomyces dermatitidis.

Implications:

• This case underscores the importance of considering Blastomyces dermatitidis in the differential diagnosis of perianal lesions.
• It is particularly relevant for patients with exposure history to endemic areas of North America.