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Human pythiosis
M Thianprasit1, A Chaiprasert, P Imwidthaya
1Department of Dermatology, Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand.
Current Topics in Medical Mycology
|December 1, 1996
Summary
Pythiosis, a granulomatous disease caused by Pythium insidiosum, affects animals and humans. Treatment varies by clinical form, with surgery being key for vascular and ophthalmic cases.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
- Veterinary Medicine
Background:
- Pythiosis is a rare but serious granulomatous disease caused by the oomycete Pythium insidiosum.
- It primarily affects animals like horses, cattle, dogs, and cats, but human cases have been documented.
- The disease presents in cutaneous/subcutaneous, systemic/vascular, or ophthalmic forms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the clinical presentation, diagnosis, and treatment of human pythiosis.
- To highlight the challenges in treating this infection and emphasize the importance of early diagnosis and appropriate therapy.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of published cases of human pythiosis.
- Analysis of clinical presentations, diagnostic methods, and treatment outcomes.
Main Results:
- Twenty-eight human cases of pythiosis have been reported globally, with 23 originating from Thailand.
- Systemic antibiotics and antimycotics show limited efficacy.
- Potassium iodide (KI) solution is beneficial for subcutaneous pythiosis.
- Surgical intervention is the primary treatment for vascular and ophthalmic forms.
Conclusions:
- Pythiosis is a challenging infection requiring a multi-faceted treatment approach.
- Early diagnosis and prompt, form-specific therapy, including surgical removal of infected tissue, are crucial for successful outcomes.