[Agents of mycetomas: a bacteriological and parasitological study (author's transl)]

Microscopic agents responsible of Mycetomas are reviewed. They may be bacteria belonging to the Actinomycetalae order (Nocardia, Actinomadura, Streptomyces) or very various fungi belonging to the classes of Adelomycetes or Ascomycetes (Madurella, Leptosphaeria, Neotestudina, etc.). Though the procedures for collecting and transporting samples are the same, direct microscopic examination gives possibility to choose among the selective culture media the most appropriate ones to isolate either fungi or Actinomycetalae. Technics of identification for the most important bacterial agents are given, but fungi can be identified in only very specialized laboratories. Immunological methods may bring valuable indications for helping diagnosis or treatment supervision.