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Cutaneous phycomycosis. Report of three cases with identification of Rhizopus
Abstract:
Three cases of pustular and ulcerative cutaneous phycomycosis developed postoperatively in orthopedic patients following exposure to a contaiminated surgical adhesive (Elastoplast). A review of the pertinent literature revealed no other similar series of reported cases. The epidemiologic investigation of these cases is discussed. This experience demonstrates that with appropriate exposure, normal saprophytes can invade the skin in immunocompetent patients, producing active and invasive lesions.
Insights
Postoperative orthopedic patients developed skin infections from a contaminated surgical adhesive. This highlights how common skin microbes can cause invasive lesions in immunocompetent individuals.
Area of Science:
- Medical Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
- Dermatology
Background:
- Surgical site infections (SSIs) are a significant concern in orthopedic surgery.
- Cutaneous phycomycosis, a fungal infection of the skin, is rare, particularly in immunocompetent patients.
Observation:
- Three orthopedic patients developed pustular and ulcerative skin lesions postoperatively.
- Exposure to a contaminated surgical adhesive (Elastoplast) was identified as a common factor.
- The lesions were diagnosed as cutaneous phycomycosis.
Findings:
- This series represents the first reported cases of postoperative cutaneous phycomycosis linked to a contaminated surgical adhesive.
- Epidemiologic investigation suggests the adhesive acted as a vehicle for pathogen transmission.
- The study demonstrates that common saprophytic organisms can cause invasive skin infections in immunocompetent hosts under specific exposure conditions.
Implications:
- Highlights the critical importance of sterile surgical supplies and meticulous wound care in preventing iatrogenic infections.
- Suggests the need for enhanced quality control measures for surgical adhesives and other topical medical products.
- Underscores that even immunocompetent individuals can be susceptible to invasive infections from opportunistic pathogens when exposed through compromised skin barriers.