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Intracranial phycomycosis: case reports

L M Tang1, S J Ryu, T J Chen

  • 1Department of Neurology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taiwan, Republic of China.

Neurosurgery
|July 1, 1988
PubMed

Insights

Cerebral phycomycosis, a rare fungal infection, can present unusually. This study details two distinct cases, highlighting diagnostic and treatment considerations for intracranial fungal abscesses.

Area of Science:

  • Mycology
  • Neurology
  • Infectious Diseases

Background:

  • Cerebral phycomycosis is an uncommon and potentially severe fungal infection affecting the brain.
  • It is often associated with specific risk factors, but can occur in otherwise healthy individuals.
  • Fungal brain abscesses present diagnostic challenges and require prompt management.

Observation:

  • Two patients with focal intracranial phycomycosis were analyzed.
  • Case 1: A diabetic patient with a chronic epidural abscess.
  • Case 2: A healthy individual with an isolated intracerebral abscess.

Findings:

  • Diagnosis was confirmed via biopsy in both cases.
  • Surgical intervention and antifungal therapy were considered.
  • Successful treatment was achieved in the patient with the intracerebral abscess.

Implications:

  • Highlights the diverse clinical presentations of cerebral phycomycosis.
  • Emphasizes the importance of biopsy for accurate diagnosis.
  • Suggests that prompt diagnosis and treatment can lead to favorable outcomes, even in rare fungal infections.

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