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Apophysomyces elegans infection in a renal transplant recipient
M T Naguib1, M M Huycke, J A Pederson
1Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, USA.
Summary
A rare fungal infection, Apophysomyces elegans, occurred in a kidney transplant recipient. Prompt treatment with debridement and amphotericin B led to full recovery, despite a potential drug interaction.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
- Transplant Surgery
Background:
- Renal transplant recipients on immunosuppressive therapy are susceptible to opportunistic infections.
- Cutaneous infections require prompt diagnosis and management to prevent systemic spread.
Observation:
- A 50-year-old kidney transplant recipient developed a post-traumatic cutaneous infection.
- The infection was caused by the fungus Apophysomyces elegans.
Findings:
- The patient recovered fully following extensive local debridement and treatment with amphotericin B lipid complex.
- No hematogenous dissemination of the fungus was observed.
- A potential drug-drug interaction between amphotericin B lipid complex and cyclosporine was noted.
Implications:
- Apophysomyces elegans infections in transplant recipients may follow a course similar to that in immunocompetent individuals.
- This fungal infection should be considered in cases of post-traumatic cutaneous infections unresponsive to antibacterial therapy.
- Close monitoring for drug interactions is crucial in transplant patients receiving antifungal treatment.