Aspergillus Sydowi Infection of Human Finger Nail

Area of Science:

• Medical Mycology
• Dermatology
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Nail infections, or onychomycosis, are commonly caused by dermatophytes, yeasts, and non-dermatophyte molds.
• While various Aspergillus species can cause opportunistic infections, Aspergillus sydowi is infrequently reported as a human pathogen, particularly in nail infections.

Observation:

• A unique case of a left middle finger nail infection is presented.
• Direct microscopy revealed fungal hyphae, phialids, and spores within the sub-ungual mass.
• The characteristic color of the infected nail mass closely matched the cultured fungus.

Findings:

• Repeated cultures from the diseased nail tissue consistently isolated Aspergillus sydowi.
• Microscopic and cultural evidence strongly indicated A. sydowi as the etiological agent responsible for the nail invasion.
• No other established pathogenic fungal or bacterial species were identified in the specimen.

Implications:

• This case expands the known spectrum of clinical manifestations for Aspergillus sydowi infections.
• Highlights the importance of considering less common molds in the differential diagnosis of onychomycosis.
• Suggests the need for accurate mycological identification for appropriate treatment of challenging nail infections.