Chromoblastomycosis. A fungal infection primarily observed in the lower extremity

Chromoblastomycosis is a cutaneous-subcutaneous fungal infection that is being seen more frequently in patients living in the US. The disease normally occurs in patients living in tropical and subtropical regions, but as the number of immigrants into the US increases, podiatrists must be able to recognize the manifestations of chromoblastomycosis. The most common sight involved is the lower extremity where it easily can be confused with other diseases such as tertiary syphilis, phaeohyphomycosis, and cutaneous tuberculosis, among others. Small lesions should be excised, while antifungal drugs, such as itraconazole, should be used when more tissue is involved.