Emergomyces africanus: The Mimicking Fungus
Ameshin Moodley1, Anisa Mosam1, Nelesh P Govender2
1Department of Dermatology, Nelson R Mandela School of Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa.
Dermatopathology (Basel, Switzerland)
|November 9, 2019
Summary
A disseminated fungal infection caused by Emergomyces africanus was diagnosed in an HIV-positive woman in South Africa. This case highlights the importance of molecular identification for diagnosing rare fungal diseases.
Area of Science:
- Medical Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
- Dermatology
Background:
- Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection can predispose individuals to opportunistic fungal infections.
- Disseminated mycoses require accurate and timely diagnosis for effective management.
Observation:
- A 31-year-old HIV-seropositive woman presented with a 3-month history of widespread, umbilicated, and ulcerated skin lesions.
- Lesions included papules, plaques, and nodules, suggesting a significant cutaneous manifestation.
Findings:
- Histology, fungal culture, and molecular identification confirmed the causative agent as *Emergomyces africanus*.
- This diagnosis identified a rare dimorphic fungal pathogen responsible for a disseminated mycosis.
Implications:
- This case underscores the utility of integrated diagnostic approaches, including molecular methods, for identifying emerging fungal pathogens.
- Early and accurate diagnosis of *Emergomyces africanus* is crucial for initiating appropriate antifungal therapy and improving patient outcomes in endemic regions.
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