Microbiological and Clinical Epidemiology of Lomentospora prolificans infections
Lydia Jennifer Sumanth1, Rajiv Karthik2, Anuradha Chandramohan3
1Department of Clinical Microbiology, Christian Medical College, Vellore, 632004, Tamil Nadu, India.
Abstract:
Lomentospora prolificans (formerly Scedosporium prolificans) is an emerging fungal pathogen, affecting both immunocompromised and immunocompetent individuals. Treatment is difficult due to intrinsic resistance against multiple anti-fungal agents. We describe five patients with L. prolificans infections attending a tertiary care center in South India. Out of the 5 patients, 4 patients presented with deep seated infection, and 1 with disseminated disease. Risk factors included uncontrolled diabetes mellitus, advanced HIV infection, T cell lymphoblastic leukemia, carcinoma breast, and immunosuppressant therapy. L. prolificans as an important causative agent of deep seated and disseminated mycoses among immunocompromised patients.
Insights
Lomentospora prolificans is a difficult-to-treat fungal pathogen causing deep or disseminated infections. This study highlights its emergence in South India, particularly in immunocompromised patients with various risk factors.
Area of Science:
- Medical Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
- Clinical Case Studies
Background:
- Lomentospora prolificans (formerly Scedosporium prolificans) is an emerging fungal pathogen.
- This fungus exhibits intrinsic resistance to many antifungal agents, complicating treatment.
- Infections affect both immunocompromised and immunocompetent individuals.
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