Entomophthoromycosis: a challenging emerging disease

Mycoses. 2014 Dec:57 Suppl 3:132-7. doi: 10.1111/myc.12248. Epub 2014 Oct 16.

Abstract

Entomophthoromycosis is a rare fungal infection that may affect immunocompetent hosts; predominantly in tropical and subtropical regions. Recently, the importance of this emerging mycosis has increased and the scope of its manifestations has been expanded. These manifestations; however, may masquerade as other clinical entities. Prompt diagnosis of this infection requires a high index of suspicion. Although histopathological examination and cultures are the gold standard diagnostic tools; molecular diagnosis is now available and started to play an important role. The cornerstone treatment is prolonged anti-fungal therapy along with surgical debridement. More awareness of this mycosis is warranted for definitive diagnosis and implementation of early proper therapeutic strategies.

Keywords: Entomophthoromycosis; basidiobolomycosis; condiobolomycosis; emerging disease; fungal infection; zygomycosis.

MeSH terms

  • Antifungal Agents / therapeutic use
  • Debridement
  • Entomophthorales / drug effects
  • Entomophthorales / pathogenicity
  • Humans
  • Immunocompromised Host
  • Zygomycosis / diagnosis*
  • Zygomycosis / drug therapy*
  • Zygomycosis / surgery*

Substances

  • Antifungal Agents