Invasive phaeohyphomycosis co-infection with Alternaria spp. and Curvularia spp. in a neutropenic host

Area of Science:

• Mycology
• Infectious Diseases
• Otolaryngology

Background:

• Phaeohyphomycoses are fungal infections caused by dematiaceous (dark-walled) fungi.
• Invasive fungal rhinosinusitis is a serious condition, often seen in immunocompromised patients.
• Alternaria and Curvularia are common dematiaceous molds with pathogenic potential.

Observation:

• This report details a rare case of invasive fungal rhinosinusitis.
• The patient was a neutropenic host, indicating a compromised immune system.
• The infection involved a co-infection with two distinct dematiaceous fungal genera: Alternaria spp. and Curvularia spp.

Findings:

• Biopsy-proven diagnosis confirmed the presence of both Alternaria spp. and Curvularia spp.
• The study describes the specific characteristics and microbiological findings of this co-infection.
• Treatment strategies for this rare co-infection are also presented.

Implications:

• This case underscores the possibility of co-infections with multiple dematiaceous fungi in susceptible hosts.
• Accurate identification of all causative agents is crucial for effective treatment of invasive fungal rhinosinusitis.
• Further research may be warranted to understand the clinical significance and management of such polymicrobial fungal infections.