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Update of Penicillosis marneffei in Thailand. Review article
1Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand.
Abstract:
Penicillium marneffei is endemic in Southeast Asia. Although Thailand is a country in this region, penicillosis marneffei was rare. It was found occasionally in immunocompromised patients. With the increasing incidence of HIV seropositivity penicillosis marneffei emerged as one of the major problems in HIV infected patients residing in Thailand. The common presenting signs were fever, anemia, hepatomegaly, lymphadenopathy. productive cough and a common skin manifestation as molluscum contagiosum-like lesions. The diseases should be considered in Thais and immunocompromised travelers with a history of visiting Thailand. Because the disease is potentially curable, prompt diagnosis and treatment will lead to better prognosis.
Insights
Penicillium marneffei infection, or penicilliosis marneffei, is a growing concern in Thailand, particularly among HIV-positive individuals. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for a better prognosis in this endemic fungal disease.
Area of Science:
- Medical Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- Penicillium marneffei is endemic to Southeast Asia.
- Penicilliosis marneffei was historically rare in Thailand.
- The incidence of HIV seropositivity has led to an emergence of this fungal infection in Thailand.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the emergence of Penicillium marneffei infection in Thailand.
- To describe the clinical presentation of the disease in HIV-infected patients.
- To emphasize the importance of considering this diagnosis in at-risk populations.
Main Methods:
- Observational study of clinical cases.
- Review of patient symptoms and diagnostic findings.
- Epidemiological analysis of disease incidence in relation to HIV prevalence.
Main Results:
- Fever, anemia, hepatomegaly, and lymphadenopathy are common signs.
- Molluscum contagiosum-like skin lesions are a frequent manifestation.
- The disease is increasingly observed in HIV-infected individuals in Thailand.
Conclusions:
- Penicilliosis marneffei is a significant opportunistic infection in HIV-infected patients in Thailand.
- Clinical suspicion is warranted in Thai individuals and immunocompromised travelers to Thailand.
- Prompt diagnosis and treatment are essential for improved patient outcomes.