Chromoblastomycosis: A Potential Mimic of Squamous Cell Carcinoma in Transplant Recipients

Transplant Proc. 2024 Jul-Aug;56(6):1454-1456. doi: 10.1016/j.transproceed.2024.05.023. Epub 2024 Aug 3.

Abstract

Chromoblastomycosis (CBM), also known as chromomycosis is a chronic, granulomatous fungal infection of the skin and subcutaneous tissue. It usually occurs by the traumatic inoculation of various dematiaceous fungi and is more common in the developing world. This condition is rare in North America and the developed world. Herein, we present a case of a 75-year-old man who received a bilateral lung transplant 4 months prior and presented for evaluation of a painful, erythematous papule on the elbow which was diagnosed as CBM. This case highlights that immunosuppression used in patients who undergo solid organ transplantation not only increases the risk of opportunistic infections like CBM but can also be confused for cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma as both these entities share many overlapping clinical and histopathologic features and may be a potential source of misdiagnosis.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Antifungal Agents / therapeutic use
  • Carcinoma, Squamous Cell* / diagnosis
  • Chromoblastomycosis* / diagnosis
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Humans
  • Immunocompromised Host
  • Immunosuppressive Agents / adverse effects
  • Immunosuppressive Agents / therapeutic use
  • Lung Transplantation / adverse effects
  • Male
  • Skin Neoplasms* / diagnosis
  • Transplant Recipients

Substances

  • Antifungal Agents
  • Immunosuppressive Agents