[Chromoblastomycosis and phaeohyphomycosis - pathogenesis and laboratory diagnosis]

Chromoblastomycosis and phaeohyphomycosis are less common fungal infections caused by dark-pigmented fungi. Virulence factors play an important role in the pathogenesis of these diseases. One of these factors, muriform cells, are the most important element for differential diagnosis of chromoblastomycosis and phaeohyphomycosis using clinical samples and various staining techniques. Accurate identification of pathogens causing chromoblastomycosis and phaeohyphomycosis is very important for correct and early antifungal therapy. Therefore, species identification of the etiological agent should be confirmed by sequencing of DNA from the culture. Early diagnosis may be crucial, especially in case of invasive forms of these infections. The diagnosis may be guided by some immunohistochemistry methods and DNA detection using polymerase chain reaction directly from clinical samples seems to be useful for identification of pathogens causing these severe and life-threatening infections.