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Phaeohyphomycosis of brain: granulomatous encephalitis caused by Drechslera spicifera
Abstract:
Drechslera spicifera is a dematiaceous fungus which occurs widely in nature but only rarely has been implicated in animal and human infections. Previous infections have occurred in superficial and subcutaneous sites or were encountered in immunologically compromised hosts. This report documents a case of granulomatous encephalitis due to Drechslera spicifera in an immunologically competent woman with no known underlying disease, from whom the fungus was isolated. Animal pathogenicity studies in mice reproduced the histopathologic features, and the fungus was reisolated from the animals.
Insights
Drechslera spicifera, a fungus, rarely causes infections. This study details a rare case of granulomatous encephalitis in an immunocompetent woman, confirmed by animal studies.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
- Neurology
Background:
- Drechslera spicifera is a ubiquitous dematiaceous fungus.
- Infections are typically superficial, subcutaneous, or in immunocompromised individuals.
Observation:
- A case of granulomatous encephalitis caused by Drechslera spicifera is reported.
- The patient was an immunocompetent woman with no prior health issues.
Findings:
- Drechslera spicifera was isolated from the patient.
- Animal pathogenicity studies in mice successfully replicated the histopathological findings.
- The fungus was successfully reisolated from infected mice.
Implications:
- This case expands the known spectrum of Drechslera spicifera infections.
- Highlights the potential for this fungus to cause severe neurological disease even in healthy individuals.
- Underscores the importance of considering fungal infections in unexplained encephalitis cases.