[A case of cutaneous protothecosis]

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Mycology
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Opportunistic infections can manifest in diverse ways, particularly in immunocompromised individuals.
• Cutaneous protothecosis is a rare infection caused by achlorophyllic algae of the genus Prototheca.

Observation:

• A case study presenting a unique skin lesion caused by Prototheca species.
• Detailed pathological examination of the cutaneous lesions.

Findings:

• The study identified pandermal inflammatory infiltrate, granulomas, pseudoepitheliomatous hyperplasia, and intraepidermal abscesses in the affected skin.
• Established criteria for identifying Prototheca in histological sections.

Implications:

• Enhances understanding of rare opportunistic infections and their dermatological manifestations.
• Provides valuable diagnostic criteria for pathologists and clinicians encountering similar cases.
• Highlights the importance of considering unusual pathogens in unexplained skin lesions.