Fusarium keratoplasticum infection in an HIV-infected patient

Area of Science:

• Mycology
• Infectious Diseases
• Immunocompromised Hosts

Background:

• Fusarium infections are exceptionally rare in individuals with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).
• Previous literature predominantly describes disseminated Fusarium infections in advanced HIV stages, often with severe prognoses.
• Disseminated Fusarium infections in HIV patients typically present with poor outcomes despite aggressive treatment.

Observation:

• This case details a localized infection caused by Fusarium keratoplasticum in an HIV-positive patient.
• The infection was confined to a specific site, unlike previously reported disseminated cases.
• The patient's advanced immunosuppression status made this presentation particularly unusual.

Findings:

• Successful treatment of localized Fusarium keratoplasticum infection was achieved.
• A combination therapy including systemic antifungal agents and surgical excision of the infected focus was employed.
• This approach led to a favorable outcome, contrasting with the poor prognoses of disseminated cases.

Implications:

• This case highlights that localized Fusarium infections can occur in HIV-positive individuals.
• It suggests that a combined therapeutic strategy of antifungal medication and surgical intervention can be effective.
• This finding offers a potential treatment paradigm for rare localized fungal infections in immunocompromised patients.