Mycetoma, chromoblastomycosis and other deep fungal infections: diagnostic and treatment approach.
Curr Opin Infect Dis 2022;
35:379-383. [PMID:
35942857 DOI:
10.1097/qco.0000000000000870]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW
to review recent advances in the epidemiology, diagnosis, and treatment of deep fungal infections.
RECENT FINDINGS
Mycetoma and chromoblastomycosis are the only deep fungal infections incorporated in the list of neglected tropical diseases. These infections start in the skin but progress to deep tissues if not recognized early. A wide array of fungal pathogens are the causative agents. Molecular methods allow for early and accurate identification of the pathogens, but are unfortunately not available in endemic areas. Treatment options are mostly based upon clinical experience rather than on well-designed clinical trials.
SUMMARY
Deep fungal infections of the skin and soft tissues are rare conditions of wide world distribution but mostly reported from tropical countries. Urgent need for affordable and easily accessible molecular methods and well-conducted studies to allow for accurate diagnosis and to provide evidence to guide proper therapy are urgently needed.
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