Sporothrix brasiliensis: Epidemiology, Therapy, and Recent Developments

Area of Science:

• Mycology
• Infectious Diseases
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Sporotrichosis caused by Sporothrix brasiliensis is an emergent mycosis with increasing global concern.
• Effective treatment is crucial for controlling sporotrichosis, but current therapeutic options are limited.
• There is an urgent need for novel antifungal agents specifically targeting S. brasiliensis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review the global distribution of Sporothrix brasiliensis causing sporotrichosis in humans and animals, particularly outside Brazil.
• To appraise existing therapies tested against S. brasiliensis.
• To highlight the need for improved disease understanding, clinical education, healthcare organization, and therapeutic research.

Main Methods:

• A systematic review was conducted following the PRISMA guideline.
• Data on the global distribution of S. brasiliensis sporotrichosis were collected.
• Antifungal activities of various agents against S. brasiliensis were assessed through in vitro and in vivo studies.

Main Results:

• Sporotrichosis caused by S. brasiliensis has been reported in Brazil and five other countries across three continents.
• Argentina shows a significant increase in reported cases in recent years.
• Twenty unique chemicals and eight repurposed drugs demonstrated in vitro activity, with five drugs showing in vivo efficacy in preclinical models.

Conclusions:

• Sporothrix brasiliensis-induced sporotrichosis is a global health issue, not confined to Brazil.
• Understanding disease epidemiology, educating healthcare professionals and the public, and organizing healthcare delivery are essential.
• Further research into effective antifungal therapies for sporotrichosis is critically needed.