Related Experiment Videos
Onychomycosis in graft versus host disease
1Department of Medicine, Brown University Program in Medicine, Providence, Rhode Island.
Cutis
|September 1, 1987
Summary
Graft versus host disease (GVHD) can present with rare nail infections like white superficial onychomycosis caused by Trichophyton rubrum. This case highlights unusual skin manifestations alongside this uncommon fungal nail infection in chronic GVHD.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Mycology
- Hematology
Background:
- Graft versus host disease (GVHD) commonly presents with diverse cutaneous manifestations.
- Nail involvement in GVHD is less frequent, with limited documented cases.
- White superficial onychomycosis is typically caused by dermatophytes, but specific agents can vary.
Observation:
- A patient with documented chronic GVHD initially presented with white superficial onychomycosis.
- The patient subsequently developed a lichenoid eruption and facial reticulated hyperpigmentation.
- Nail cultures identified Trichophyton rubrum, an unusual pathogen for this type of onychomycosis.
Findings:
- This case represents the third report of white superficial onychomycosis caused by Trichophyton rubrum.
- Histopathology confirmed fungal elements in the superficial nail plate, sparing the ventral aspect.
- The study reviews known cutaneous and nail findings associated with GVHD.
Implications:
- This case expands the spectrum of nail manifestations in chronic GVHD.
- Highlights the importance of considering uncommon fungal pathogens in GVHD patients with onychomycosis.
- Emphasizes the need for comprehensive dermatological evaluation in GVHD management.