Sporotrichosis In Immunocompromised Hosts

Area of Science:

• Mycology
• Infectious Diseases
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Sporotrichosis is a global subcutaneous mycosis caused by *Sporothrix* species, a thermo-dimorphic fungus.
• It is an anthropozoonotic disease transmitted by plants or animals, notably cats, and can occur in endemic tropical/subtropical regions.
• While typically affecting immunocompetent hosts, it can manifest severely in immunocompromised individuals, including those with HIV, diabetes, or undergoing immunosuppressive therapy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the epidemiological, clinical, diagnostic, and therapeutic aspects of sporotrichosis specifically in immunocompromised hosts.
• To highlight the implications of a large, ongoing outbreak of cat-transmitted sporotrichosis in Brazil.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on sporotrichosis in immunocompromised populations.
• Analysis of epidemiological data from a significant ongoing outbreak involving humans and cats.

Main Results:

• Immunocompromised hosts often experience more severe sporotrichosis with higher fungal loads and prolonged treatment requirements.
• A major outbreak of cat-transmitted sporotrichosis is ongoing in Brazil, affecting thousands of humans and cats, including those with HIV and FIV.
• Infection can occur via implantation or inhalation, with disseminated forms more frequent in immunocompromised patients.

Conclusions:

• Sporotrichosis poses a significant threat to immunocompromised individuals, demanding careful clinical and therapeutic management.
• The current Brazilian outbreak underscores the zoonotic potential and public health importance of sporotrichosis, particularly in vulnerable populations.
• Understanding the specific challenges in immunocompromised hosts is crucial for effective disease control and treatment strategies.