Keloidal blastomycosis (Lobo's disease) in Panama.

Area of Science:

• Medical Mycology
• Dermatopathology

Background:

• Blastomycosis is a fungal infection, with keloidal blastomycosis (Lobo's disease) being a distinct clinical form.
• This form is characterized by keloid-like lesions and is endemic in certain regions.

Observation:

• A 58-year-old man from Panama presented with scarring nodules on his ears.
• These lesions were clinically suggestive of a fungal infection.

Findings:

• Histologic examination of the ear lesions revealed the presence of fungi consistent with keloidal blastomycosis.
• The morphology of the fungi and the host tissue response confirmed the diagnosis.

Implications:

• This case highlights the importance of considering keloidal blastomycosis in the differential diagnosis of ear lesions in endemic areas.
• Accurate diagnosis through histopathology is crucial for appropriate patient management and understanding disease distribution.