CHROMOBLASTOMYCOSIS: A NEGLECTED TROPICAL DISEASE

Area of Science:

• Mycology
• Dermatology
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Chromoblastomycosis (CMB) is a chronic fungal infection affecting skin and subcutaneous tissues.
• It is caused by dematiaceous fungi transmitted via traumatic inoculation, prevalent in tropical/subtropical regions.
• Early diagnosis is crucial as untreated CMB necessitates prolonged systemic antifungal therapy, often combined with physical methods.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current therapeutic strategies for Chromoblastomycosis.
• To discuss factors impacting patient outcomes in CMB management.
• To highlight the need for comparative clinical trials in CMB treatment.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of existing therapeutic options for CMB.
• Analysis of factors influencing treatment success and patient prognosis.
• Examination of recent advancements, including photodynamic therapy.

Main Results:

• Itraconazole, as monotherapy or in combination, is a widely used treatment.
• Photodynamic therapy combined with antifungals shows recent promise.
• Limited comparative clinical trials exist, with current therapy relying on open trials and expert opinion.

Conclusions:

• Current Chromoblastomycosis treatment relies on established antifungals like itraconazole and expert consensus.
• Emerging therapies like photodynamic therapy offer new combination possibilities.
• Further research, particularly comparative clinical trials, is essential to optimize CMB management and patient outcomes.