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Invasive primary cutaneous phycomycosis in diabetic leg ulcers
Archives of Surgery (Chicago, Ill. : 1960)
|June 1, 1980
Summary
Cutaneous phycomycosis can infect diabetic leg ulcers, requiring biopsy for diagnosis. Treatment varies, with one patient cured by amphotericin B and debridement, while another needed amputation due to aggressive infection.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Dermatology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Diabetic leg ulcers are prone to secondary infections.
- Phycomycetes, a group of fungi, can cause severe cutaneous infections.
Observation:
- Two cases of cutaneous phycomycosis complicating diabetic leg ulcers are presented.
- One patient presented with an infected vesicular skin lesion.
- The second patient developed a posttraumatic leg ulcer with hyperglycemia and renal insufficiency.
Findings:
- Invasive fungal infection was confirmed by culture and biopsy.
- Systemic amphotericin B and debridement were effective for the first patient.
- Aggressive infection in the second patient necessitated amputation.
Implications:
- Phycomycetes infections can arise in or worsen diabetic leg ulcers.
- Early recognition through biopsy is crucial for effective treatment.
- Treatment strategies may range from antifungal therapy to surgical intervention, including amputation.