[Dermatophytosis caused by Aphanoascus fulvescens]

Area of Science:

• Medical Mycology
• Dermatology

Background:

• Dermatophytosis is a common fungal infection of the skin, hair, and nails.
• Prolonged use of topical corticosteroids can alter the skin's immune response, potentially leading to opportunistic infections.

Observation:

• A 45-year-old woman presented with lesions clinically resembling dermatophytosis on her neck.
• The patient had a history of several months of topical steroid cream application for an underlying dermatosis.
• Aphanoascus fulvescens was isolated from the skin lesions.

Findings:

• The isolated strain of Aphanoascus fulvescens exhibited microscopic characteristics slightly different from previously reported descriptions.
• These morphological variations more closely aligned with strains previously identified in Australia and New Guinea.
• Successful treatment of the infection was achieved using a combination of griseofulvin and tolnaftate over a six-week period.

Implications:

• This case highlights Aphanoascus fulvescens as a potential cause of dermatological infections, particularly in immunocompromised individuals or those using immunosuppressive therapies.
• The observed morphological variations in the isolate suggest potential geographic or environmental influences on fungal characteristics.
• Effective antifungal therapies, such as griseofulvin and tolnaftate, can successfully manage Aphanoascus fulvescens infections.