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Phaeoacremonium species detected in fine needle aspiration: a rare case report
Santosh Tummidi1, Bitan Naik2, Arundhathi Shankaralingappa2
1Department of Pathology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Mangalagiri, Andhra Pradesh, 522503, India. born_vss@yahoo.co.in.
Background:
Fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) with rapid on-site evaluation has a great potential for the diagnosis of fungal lesions and other opportunistic infections. Fungal infections have been in increasing trend in the past two decades due to immunosuppression, travel, and environmental exposure. Human disease caused by Phaeoacremonium species is rare and was first reported in 1974 as subcutaneous tissue infection in a renal transplant recipient.
Case Presentation:
We report a case of subcutaneous tissue swelling in a 67-year-old male, wherein FNAC was done with incidental detection of the fungus (Phaeoacremonium spp).
Conclusion:
There are very few reported cases of subcutaneous infection in humans by Phaeoacremonium spp. Clinical suspicion and FNAC can play an important role in early detection of the fungus, prevent spread, and facilitating early treatment.
Insights
Fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) can detect rare Phaeoacremonium fungal infections in subcutaneous tissue. Early diagnosis via FNAC is crucial for preventing fungal spread and enabling timely treatment.
Area of Science:
- Medical Mycology
- Diagnostic Cytopathology
Background:
- Fungal infections are rising due to increased immunosuppression, travel, and environmental factors.
- Phaeoacremonium species rarely cause human disease, with subcutaneous infection being uncommon.
Observation:
- A case of subcutaneous tissue swelling in a 67-year-old male is presented.
- Fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) was performed for diagnosis.
Findings:
- FNAC incidentally detected Phaeoacremonium species in the subcutaneous tissue.
- This represents a rare instance of human subcutaneous infection by this fungus.
Implications:
- Clinical suspicion combined with FNAC aids in the early detection of Phaeoacremonium infections.
- Prompt diagnosis facilitates treatment and prevents the potential spread of the infection.
