A multivariable model of clinical features for distinguishing sporotrichosis and Mycobacterium marinum cutaneous infection

Diagn Microbiol Infect Dis. 2025 Jan;111(1):116590. doi: 10.1016/j.diagmicrobio.2024.116590. Epub 2024 Nov 3.

Abstract

To investigate differences in the clinical features of patients with sporotrichosis and cutaneous Mycobacterium marinum infection, and develop a prediction model for the initial identification. A total of 121 patients were selected based on the results from etiological culture. Logistic regression analyses were employed to identify the most valuable variables. In the multivariate logistic regression analysis, the following were finally considered independent predictors (OR = 3.650∼14.024, P<0.05) of cutaneous M. marinum infection: age<60 years (P = 0.031); female (P = 0.001); only the extremities involved (P = 0.031); clear triggers (P = 0.022); and presence of swelling (P = 0.024). A nomogram was developed based on these factors, and the area under the curve was 0.860. The model presented is based on clinical features and can help identify patients with sporotrichosis and cutaneous M. marinum infection. This may help increase the accuracy of doctors' initial examination and diagnostic outcomes.

Keywords: Case analysis; Cutaneous infection; Logistic regression model; Mycobacterium marinum; Sporotrichosis.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Mycobacterium Infections, Nontuberculous* / diagnosis
  • Mycobacterium Infections, Nontuberculous* / microbiology
  • Mycobacterium marinum* / isolation & purification
  • Nomograms
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Skin Diseases, Bacterial* / diagnosis
  • Skin Diseases, Bacterial* / microbiology
  • Sporothrix / classification
  • Sporothrix / isolation & purification
  • Sporotrichosis* / diagnosis
  • Sporotrichosis* / microbiology
  • Young Adult

Supplementary concepts

  • Infection with Mycobacterium marinum