Keloidal blastomycosis (Lobo's disease) with lymphatic involvement: a case report

Area of Science:

• Medical Mycology
• Infectious Diseases
• Dermatology

Background:

• Keloidal blastomycosis (Lobo's disease) is a chronic granulomatous fungal infection caused by *Paracoccidioides loboi*.
• It is endemic to specific regions, primarily in South America, including the Amazon basin.
• Clinical presentation often involves cutaneous and subcutaneous lesions, mimicking keloids.

Observation:

• A 34-year-old male from the Brazilian Amazon presented with lesions on his left ear and posterior auricular region.
• The patient exhibited signs consistent with keloidal blastomycosis.
• This case represents the eighth documented instance of lymph node involvement among 99 reported patients.

Findings:

• The case confirms the occurrence of keloidal blastomycosis in the Brazilian Amazon.
• The involvement of lymph nodes in this patient underscores the potential for systemic dissemination of the infection.
• This finding contributes to the understanding of the epidemiological and clinical spectrum of Lobo's disease.

Implications:

• Increased awareness of keloidal blastomycosis and its varied presentations is crucial for timely diagnosis.
• The documented lymph node involvement suggests the need for thorough staging and monitoring in affected individuals.
• Further research into the pathogenesis and treatment of Lobo's disease, particularly concerning lymph node metastasis, is warranted.