Atypical Mpox Cutaneous Presentation After Full Vaccination.

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Infectious Diseases
• Dermatology

Background:

• The 2022-2023 mpox outbreak prompted a global health emergency declaration.
• Smallpox vaccination has reduced mpox incidence and severity in the general population.
• The efficacy of mpox vaccination in immunosuppressed individuals remains unclear.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report an atypical case of cutaneous mpox in a vaccinated, immunosuppressed patient.
• To discuss the diagnostic challenges posed by unusual mpox presentations.
• To review the workup for mpox in immunocompromised populations.

Main Methods:

• Case report of a single patient.
• Review of relevant medical literature.
• Analysis of diagnostic workup.

Main Results:

• An HIV-negative, immunosuppressed patient, fully vaccinated against mpox, developed an isolated subcutaneous neck mass.
• The presentation mimicked other conditions, creating a diagnostic dilemma.
• Diagnostic workup confirmed cutaneous mpox.

Conclusions:

• Mpox can present atypically even in fully vaccinated, immunosuppressed individuals.
• Early and comprehensive diagnostic evaluation is crucial for immunocompromised patients with suspected mpox.
• Further research is needed to understand vaccination effectiveness in immunosuppressed populations.