Subcutaneous Phaeohyphomycosis Caused by Exophiala oligosperma in an Immunocompetent Host: Case Report and Literature Review

Mycopathologia. 2018 Oct;183(5):815-820. doi: 10.1007/s11046-018-0279-0. Epub 2018 Jun 26.

Abstract

We report a case of subcutaneous infection caused by Exophiala oligosperma. Erythematous ulcerated plaque with exudate was major clinical features. Histopathological examination showed yeast-like cells and fungal hyphae. Mycological and molecular identification revealed E. oligosperma as etiologic agent. Local debridement and oral itraconazole were effective. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of phaeohyphomycosis caused by E. oligosperma in mainland China. This report highlights the potential role of E. oligosperma as an emerging cause of infection in immunocompetent patients.

Keywords: Exophiala oligosperma; Phaeohyphomycosis; Subcutaneous infection.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • China
  • Exophiala / classification
  • Exophiala / genetics
  • Exophiala / isolation & purification*
  • Female
  • Histocytochemistry
  • Humans
  • Microbiological Techniques
  • Microscopy
  • Phaeohyphomycosis / diagnosis*
  • Phaeohyphomycosis / microbiology
  • Phaeohyphomycosis / pathology*
  • Polymerase Chain Reaction