1
|
Azam F, Hicks WH, Pernik MN, Hoes K, Payne R. Retropharyngeal Blastomycosis Abscess Causing Osteomyelitis, Discitis, Cervical Deformity, and Cervical Epidural Abscess: A Case Report. Cureus 2023; 15:e45570. [PMID: 37868378 PMCID: PMC10586878 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.45570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Blastomycosis infection is caused by the inhalation of the spores of the dimorphic Blastomyces sp.fungus. While more commonly a self-limited infection of the lungs, extrapulmonary manifestations arise from hematogenous or contiguous spread. Disseminated infection most often includes skin lesions and osteomyelitis; however, central nervous system (CNS) involvement is infrequently reported in the literature. Herein, we present a case of a retropharyngeal blastomycosis abscess leading to cervical spine osteonecrosis with retropulsion, deformity, and a spinal epidural abscess, and we discuss the relevant literature. The patient was successfully treated with cervical traction, followed by a combined anterior-posterior cervical approach, including abscess drainage, corpectomies, and instrumented fixation. Postoperatively, the patient completed 12 months of voriconazole and had near resolution of preoperative symptoms. Expediting neurosurgical intervention, such as the utilization of decompression, the clearance of infectious burden, and the correction of alignment, is critical for preventing downstream complications. Retropharyngeal blastomycosis abscesses are rare, and we report one of the rare instances of dissemination to and the degeneration of the cervical spine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Faraaz Azam
- Neurological Surgery, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, USA
| | - William H Hicks
- Neurological Surgery, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, USA
| | - Mark N Pernik
- Neurosurgery, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, USA
| | - Kathryn Hoes
- Neurological Surgery, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, USA
| | - Russell Payne
- Neurological Surgery, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, USA
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Gamaletsou MN, Rammaert B, Brause B, Bueno MA, Dadwal SS, Henry MW, Katragkou A, Kontoyiannis DP, McCarthy MW, Miller AO, Moriyama B, Pana ZD, Petraitiene R, Petraitis V, Roilides E, Sarkis JP, Simitsopoulou M, Sipsas NV, Taj-Aldeen SJ, Zeller V, Lortholary O, Walsh TJ. Osteoarticular Mycoses. Clin Microbiol Rev 2022; 35:e0008619. [PMID: 36448782 PMCID: PMC9769674 DOI: 10.1128/cmr.00086-19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Osteoarticular mycoses are chronic debilitating infections that require extended courses of antifungal therapy and may warrant expert surgical intervention. As there has been no comprehensive review of these diseases, the International Consortium for Osteoarticular Mycoses prepared a definitive treatise for this important class of infections. Among the etiologies of osteoarticular mycoses are Candida spp., Aspergillus spp., Mucorales, dematiaceous fungi, non-Aspergillus hyaline molds, and endemic mycoses, including those caused by Histoplasma capsulatum, Blastomyces dermatitidis, and Coccidioides species. This review analyzes the history, epidemiology, pathogenesis, clinical manifestations, diagnostic approaches, inflammatory biomarkers, diagnostic imaging modalities, treatments, and outcomes of osteomyelitis and septic arthritis caused by these organisms. Candida osteomyelitis and Candida arthritis are associated with greater events of hematogenous dissemination than those of most other osteoarticular mycoses. Traumatic inoculation is more commonly associated with osteoarticular mycoses caused by Aspergillus and non-Aspergillus molds. Synovial fluid cultures are highly sensitive in the detection of Candida and Aspergillus arthritis. Relapsed infection, particularly in Candida arthritis, may develop in relation to an inadequate duration of therapy. Overall mortality reflects survival from disseminated infection and underlying host factors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maria N. Gamaletsou
- Laiko General Hospital of Athens and Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Blandine Rammaert
- Université de Poitiers, Faculté de médecine, CHU de Poitiers, INSERM U1070, Poitiers, France
| | - Barry Brause
- Hospital for Special Surgery, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Marimelle A. Bueno
- Far Eastern University-Dr. Nicanor Reyes Medical Foundation, Manilla, Philippines
| | | | - Michael W. Henry
- Hospital for Special Surgery, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Aspasia Katragkou
- Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, Ohio, USA
- The Ohio State University School of Medicine, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | | | - Matthew W. McCarthy
- Weill Cornell Medicine of Cornell University, New York, New York, USA
- New York Presbyterian Hospital, New York, New York, USA
| | - Andy O. Miller
- Hospital for Special Surgery, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | | | - Zoi Dorothea Pana
- Hippokration General Hospital, Aristotle University School of Health Sciences, Thessaloniki, Greece
- Faculty of Medicine, Aristotle University School of Health Sciences, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Ruta Petraitiene
- Weill Cornell Medicine of Cornell University, New York, New York, USA
| | | | - Emmanuel Roilides
- Hippokration General Hospital, Aristotle University School of Health Sciences, Thessaloniki, Greece
- Faculty of Medicine, Aristotle University School of Health Sciences, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | | | - Maria Simitsopoulou
- Hippokration General Hospital, Aristotle University School of Health Sciences, Thessaloniki, Greece
- Faculty of Medicine, Aristotle University School of Health Sciences, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Nikolaos V. Sipsas
- Laiko General Hospital of Athens and Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | | | - Valérie Zeller
- Groupe Hospitalier Diaconesses-Croix Saint-Simon, Paris, France
| | - Olivier Lortholary
- Université de Paris, Faculté de Médecine, APHP, Hôpital Necker-Enfants Malades, Paris, France
- Institut Pasteur, Unité de Mycologie Moléculaire, CNRS UMR 2000, Paris, France
| | - Thomas J. Walsh
- Hospital for Special Surgery, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
- Weill Cornell Medicine of Cornell University, New York, New York, USA
- New York Presbyterian Hospital, New York, New York, USA
- Center for Innovative Therapeutics and Diagnostics, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Imaging findings of pulmonary blastomycosis in pediatric patients. Pediatr Radiol 2022; 52:1974-1984. [PMID: 35687113 DOI: 10.1007/s00247-022-05402-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2021] [Revised: 03/29/2022] [Accepted: 05/14/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Blastomycosis is caused by Blastomyces dermatitidis, a thermally dimorphic fungus that lives in the form of spores in the soil in North America. The main mode of transmission is through the inhalation of these spores. Despite the importance of knowing the imaging characteristics of blastomycosis given the suggested high rates of dissemination in symptomatic children, a paucity of literature focuses on the imaging patterns of blastomycosis in the pediatric population. In this review, we describe the main imaging findings of pediatric pulmonary blastomycosis and briefly review extrapulmonary manifestations of the disease. Familiarity with these imaging manifestations is important to aid in rapid diagnosis.
Collapse
|
4
|
Hanna JJ, Guastadisegni JM, Kouma MA, Knez EB, Arasaratnam RJ, Storey DF. Blastomycosis Presenting with Acute Airway Obstruction from a Retropharyngeal Abscess and Complicated by Severe Hypokalemia During Posaconazole Therapy: A Case Report and Review of Literature. Open Forum Infect Dis 2022; 9:ofac414. [PMID: 36043181 PMCID: PMC9416057 DOI: 10.1093/ofid/ofac414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2022] [Accepted: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
We report a case of cervical blastomycosis with associated paravertebral involvement and severe spinal canal stenosis in a 48-year-old patient presenting with acute airway obstruction from a retropharyngeal abscess. Our case was also complicated by severe hypokalemia that developed during the blastomycosis treatment course with posaconazole and which improved after discontinuation and replacement therapy. After 12 months of blastomycosis-targeted therapy, our patient had complete resolution of clinical, laboratory, and radiological findings of blastomycosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- John J Hanna
- University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center , Dallas, TX , USA
| | | | - Marcus A Kouma
- Veterans Affairs North Texas Health Care System , Dallas, TX , USA
| | - Emily B Knez
- Veterans Affairs North Texas Health Care System , Dallas, TX , USA
| | - Reuben J Arasaratnam
- Veterans Affairs North Texas Health Care System and University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center , Dallas, TX , USA
| | - Donald F Storey
- Veterans Affairs North Texas Health Care System and University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center , Dallas, TX , USA
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Pullen MF, Alpern JD, Bahr NC. Blastomycosis-Some Progress but Still Much to Learn. J Fungi (Basel) 2022; 8:jof8080824. [PMID: 36012812 PMCID: PMC9410313 DOI: 10.3390/jof8080824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2022] [Revised: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Blastomycosis, caused by Blastomyces spp., is an endemic mycosis capable of causing significant disease throughout the body. Higher rates of infection are seen in the Mississippi and Ohio River valleys, the Great Lakes region of the United States and Canada, much of Africa, and, to a lesser extent, in India and the Middle East. Limited reporting inhibits our true understanding of the geographic distribution of blastomycosis. An estimated 50% of those infected remain asymptomatic. Of those who present with symptomatic disease, pulmonary involvement is most common, while the most common extrapulmonary sites are the skin, bones, genitourinary system, and central nervous system. Itraconazole is the standard therapy for mild-moderate disease. Data for other azoles are limited. Amphotericin is used for severe disease, and corticosteroids are occasionally used in severe disease, but evidence for this practice is limited. Despite increasing incidence and geographic reach in recent years, there are still significant knowledge gaps in our understanding of blastomycosis. Here, we provide an updated review of the epidemiology, clinical presentations, and diagnostic and therapeutic approaches for this infection. We also discuss areas needing further research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Matthew F. Pullen
- Division of Infectious Diseases and International Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Jonathan D. Alpern
- Division of Infectious Diseases, HealthPartners, Bloomington, MN 55425, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Nathan C. Bahr
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Bennie Ho K, Ng M, Tallon K. A case of disseminated blastomycosis with pulmonary, genitourinary, and osteoarticular involvement in southern Saskatchewan. JOURNAL OF THE ASSOCIATION OF MEDICAL MICROBIOLOGY AND INFECTIOUS DISEASE CANADA = JOURNAL OFFICIEL DE L'ASSOCIATION POUR LA MICROBIOLOGIE MEDICALE ET L'INFECTIOLOGIE CANADA 2020; 5:39-43. [PMID: 36339010 PMCID: PMC9603311 DOI: 10.3138/jammi.2019-0010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2019] [Accepted: 09/27/2019] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Although southern Saskatchewan is not known to be a region endemic to blastomycosis, we present a case of disseminated blastomycosis in a 39-year-old man with pulmonary, genitourinary, and osteoarticular involvement. The patient presented with persistent fevers despite recent antibiotic therapy, arthritis in his left foot, and urinary obstruction. A computed tomography (CT) scan of the chest revealed a diffuse miliary pattern. A transbronchial biopsy only showed granulomatous changes, and washings were negative for fungal culture. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the left foot revealed signs of septic arthritis. Pathology from the joint aspiration and debridement revealed budding yeast in keeping with blastomycosis. Urine culture also grew blastomycosis, confirming urinary involvement. He was initiated on itraconazole, with complete resolution of his symptoms within 2 weeks. This case illustrates the challenges in diagnosing disseminated blastomycosis, and further establishes the endemicity of blastomycosis in southern Saskatchewan.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Karen Bennie Ho
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - Maxwell Ng
- Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Kelsey Tallon
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
- Department of Respirology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Spinal blastomycosis: unusual musculoskeletal presentation with literature review. Skeletal Radiol 2019; 48:2021-2027. [PMID: 31139922 DOI: 10.1007/s00256-019-03234-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2019] [Revised: 04/24/2019] [Accepted: 04/30/2019] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
We report a case of a 41-year-old male who presented to our institution with a large groin mass. CT, MRI and PET imaging was performed and was concerning for a soft tissue abscess likely originating in the lumbar spine. Differential considerations included infection, with atypical infections such as tuberculosis strongly considered. Biopsy revealed fungal elements preliminarily reported as consistent with Cryptococcus neoformans but later revealed to be Blastomyces dermatitidis. The patient responded positively following the introduction of appropriate treatment. This case illustrates the imaging similarities between spinal blastomycosis, spinal tuberculosis, and other fungal infections as well as the need for biopsy to differentiate.
Collapse
|
8
|
Larkin SS, Gray AJ. An Unusual Cause of Horner Syndrome. J Gen Intern Med 2018; 33:774-775. [PMID: 29383548 PMCID: PMC5910350 DOI: 10.1007/s11606-018-4317-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2017] [Revised: 11/03/2017] [Accepted: 01/11/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Shilpa S Larkin
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA.
| | - Adam J Gray
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Blastomycosis in Mammals. EMERGING AND EPIZOOTIC FUNGAL INFECTIONS IN ANIMALS 2018. [PMCID: PMC7122209 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-72093-7_8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Blastomycosis is a serious fungal disease of dogs, humans, and occasionally other mammals caused by geographically restricted, thermally dimorphic Blastomyces species. Blastomycosis is primarily a canine disease, with approximately ten dogs diagnosed for every human case. Dogs also develop disease more rapidly, thus becoming sentinels for possible human disease. Human and canine blastomycosis may differ according to epidemiology/epizoology, clinical features, performance and use of diagnostics, and management.
Collapse
|
10
|
Abstract
The causal agents of blastomycosis, Blastomyces dermatitidis and Blastomyces gilchristii, belong to a group of thermally dimorphic fungi that can infect healthy and immunocompromised individuals. Following inhalation of mycelial fragments and spores into the lungs, Blastomyces spp convert into pathogenic yeast and evade host immune defenses to cause pneumonia and disseminated disease. The clinical spectrum of pulmonary blastomycosis is diverse. The diagnosis of blastomycosis requires a high degree of clinical suspicion and involves culture-based and non-culture-based fungal diagnostic tests. The site and severity of infection, and the presence of underlying immunosuppression or pregnancy, influence the selection of antifungal therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joseph A McBride
- Division of Infectious Disease, Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, 600 Highland Avenue, Madison, WI 53792, USA; Division of Infectious Disease, Department of Pediatrics, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, 1675 Highland Avenue, Madison, WI 53792, USA
| | - Gregory M Gauthier
- Division of Infectious Disease, Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, 600 Highland Avenue, Madison, WI 53792, USA.
| | - Bruce S Klein
- Division of Infectious Disease, Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, 600 Highland Avenue, Madison, WI 53792, USA; Division of Infectious Disease, Department of Pediatrics, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, 1675 Highland Avenue, Madison, WI 53792, USA; Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, 1550 Linden Drive, Madison, WI 53706, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
|
12
|
Abstract
Blastomycosis is an endemic fungal infection due to Blastomyces dermatitidis that most commonly causes pneumonia; but the organism can disseminate to any organ system, most commonly the skin, bones/joints, and genitourinary tract. Both immunocompetent and immunocompromised persons can be infected, but more severe disease occurs in the immunocompromised. Blastomycosis can be diagnosed by culture, direct visualization of the yeast in affected tissue, and/or antigen testing. Treatment course and duration depend on severity of illness. For mild to moderate pulmonary disease the treatment is itraconazole. For severe blastomycosis, lipid formulation amphotericin B is given, followed by step-down therapy with itraconazole.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Caroline G Castillo
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Michigan Health System, 3119 Taubman Center, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Carol A Kauffman
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Michigan Health System, 3119 Taubman Center, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; Division of Infectious Diseases, Veterans Affairs Ann Arbor Healthcare System, 2215 Fuller Road, Ann Arbor, MI 48105, USA
| | - Marisa H Miceli
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Michigan Health System, 3119 Taubman Center, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Patel KR, Szczodry M, Neckrysh S, Siemionow K. Anterior cervical corpectomy and fusion for blastomycosis causing destruction of C6 vertebra: a case report. J Med Case Rep 2015; 9:271. [PMID: 26607290 PMCID: PMC4658788 DOI: 10.1186/s13256-015-0762-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2015] [Accepted: 11/08/2015] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction We describe a patient who had cervical spine osteomyelitis caused by Blastomyces dermatitidis that resulted in cord compression and cervical spine instability. Case presentation A 25-year-old Hispanic woman presented with fever, sweats, neck pain, and an enlarging neck mass with purulent discharge after sustaining a C6 vertebral body fracture. Magnetic resonance imaging confirmed C6 vertebral osteomyelitis, demonstrated by vertebral body destruction, cervical spine instability, prevertebral abscess, and spinal cord compression. She underwent C6 anterior cervical corpectomy and fusion, with fungal cultures confirming Blastomyces dermatitidis. Conclusions Anterior cervical corpectomy and fusion successful debrided, decompressed, and restored cervical spine stability in a patient with vertebral osteomyelitis caused by Blastomyces dermatitidis. The patient was subsequently treated with a 1-year course of itraconazole and had no recurrence of infection 4 years postoperatively.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kushal R Patel
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of Illinois Hospital & Health Sciences System, 835 S Wolcott Avenue, Chicago, IL, 60612, USA.
| | - Michal Szczodry
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of Illinois Hospital & Health Sciences System, 835 S Wolcott Avenue, Chicago, IL, 60612, USA.
| | - Sergey Neckrysh
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of Illinois Hospital & Health Sciences System, 835 S Wolcott Avenue, Chicago, IL, 60612, USA.
| | - Krzysztof Siemionow
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of Illinois Hospital & Health Sciences System, 835 S Wolcott Avenue, Chicago, IL, 60612, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Abstract
STUDY DESIGN Review of the literature. OBJECTIVE To retrospectively examine the frequency of published fungal infections by species and the treatment algorithms used to eradicate the disease. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA Fungal infections of the spine present unique challenges to the modern multispecialty treatment team. Although rare in comparison with bacterial infections, fungal infections have been increasing in incidence over the past several decades. Evidences-based practice is limited to referencing smaller case series. METHODS MEDLINE, Scopus, and EMBASE searches were carried out by one of the authors as well as by the research desk at the University of Miami/Calder Memorial Library. We included peer-reviewed articles published between 1948 and September 2010; case reports, series, and reviews were all examined and compiled into a database. RESULTS A total of 130 articles, representing 157 cases, were included in the review. Aspergillus (60 cases, 38.2% of the total) and Candida species (36 cases, 22.9% of the total) were the 2 most common organisms. Surgery was associated with a greater survival rate than medical management alone in patients with Aspergillus (26.9% mortality in surgical patients; 60% in medically treated patients) and Candida (0% vs. 28.6%). Overall mortality was 19.3%. The overall recurrence rate was 7.4%. Amphotericin use was associated with a higher mortality rate than azoles. CONCLUSION Aspergillus is the most common published pathogen in fungal infections of the spine. Recent publications depicting the use of newer antifungal medications such as azoles report higher survival rates. Surgically treated patients in combination with antifungal therapy showed highest frequencies of patient survival in Aspergillus and Candida infections. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE 3.
Collapse
|
15
|
|
16
|
Day SR, Weiss DB, Hazen KC, Moore CC. Successful treatment of osseous blastomycosis without pulmonary or disseminated disease and review of the literature. Diagn Microbiol Infect Dis 2014; 79:242-4. [PMID: 24703876 DOI: 10.1016/j.diagmicrobio.2014.02.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2013] [Revised: 02/24/2014] [Accepted: 02/28/2014] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Blastomycosis commonly occurs following inhalation of Blastomyces dermatitidis conidia causing a pulmonary infection and can disseminate to extrapulmonary sites. Osseous involvement primarily results from hematogenous spread, but in rare cases, direct inoculation can occur. We describe a case of osseous blastomycosis without pulmonary or disseminated disease successfully treated with posaconazole.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shandra R Day
- Division of Infectious Diseases & International Health, University of Virginia Health System, Charlottesville, VA.
| | - David B Weiss
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of Virginia Health System, Charlottesville, VA
| | - Kevin C Hazen
- Clinical Microbiology Laboratory, Department of Pathology, Duke University, Durham, NC
| | - Christopher C Moore
- Division of Infectious Diseases & International Health, University of Virginia Health System, Charlottesville, VA
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Abstract
Even at a time when HIV/AIDS and immunosuppressive therapy have increased the number of individuals living with significant immunocompromise, diabetes mellitus (DM) remains a major comorbid disorder for several rare but potentially lethal infections, including rhino-orbital-cerebral mucormycosis and malignant external otitis. DM is also a commonly associated condition in patients with nontropical pyomyositis, pyogenic spinal infections, Listeria meningitis, and blastomycosis. As West Nile virus spread to and across North America over a decade ago, DM appeared in many series as a risk factor for death or neuroinvasive disease. More recently, in several large international population-based studies, DM was identified as a risk factor for herpes zoster. The relationships among infection, DM, and the nervous system are multidirectional. Viral infections have been implicated in the pathogenesis of type 1 and type 2 DM, while parasitic infections have been hypothesized to protect against autoimmune disorders, including type 1 DM. DM-related neurologic disease can predispose to systemic infection - polyneuropathy is the predominant risk factor for diabetic foot infection. Because prognosis for many neurologic infections depends on timely institution of antimicrobial and sometimes surgical therapy, neurologists caring for diabetic patients should be familiar with the clinical features of the neuroinfectious syndromes associated with DM.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cheryl A Jay
- Department of Neurology, University of California San Francisco and Neurology Service, San Francisco General Hospital, San Francisco, CA, USA.
| | - Marylou V Solbrig
- Departments of Internal Medicine (Neurology) and Medical Microbiology, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Bridger N, Fanella S. The basketball player with back pain. Pediatr Infect Dis J 2011; 30:915-6. [PMID: 21918491 DOI: 10.1097/inf.0b013e31821f4c0c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Natalie Bridger
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health and Department of Medical Microbiology, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | | |
Collapse
|
19
|
Affiliation(s)
- Hannah Koh
- Department of Medicine, Chief Infectious Disease Section, Loyola University Medical Center, Maywood, Illinois, USA.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
Limper AH, Knox KS, Sarosi GA, Ampel NM, Bennett JE, Catanzaro A, Davies SF, Dismukes WE, Hage CA, Marr KA, Mody CH, Perfect JR, Stevens DA. An official American Thoracic Society statement: Treatment of fungal infections in adult pulmonary and critical care patients. Am J Respir Crit Care Med 2011; 183:96-128. [PMID: 21193785 DOI: 10.1164/rccm.2008-740st] [Citation(s) in RCA: 358] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
With increasing numbers of immune-compromised patients with malignancy, hematologic disease, and HIV, as well as those receiving immunosupressive drug regimens for the management of organ transplantation or autoimmune inflammatory conditions, the incidence of fungal infections has dramatically increased over recent years. Definitive diagnosis of pulmonary fungal infections has also been substantially assisted by the development of newer diagnostic methods and techniques, including the use of antigen detection, polymerase chain reaction, serologies, computed tomography and positron emission tomography scans, bronchoscopy, mediastinoscopy, and video-assisted thorascopic biopsy. At the same time, the introduction of new treatment modalities has significantly broadened options available to physicians who treat these conditions. While traditionally antifungal therapy was limited to the use of amphotericin B, flucytosine, and a handful of clinically available azole agents, current pharmacologic treatment options include potent new azole compounds with extended antifungal activity, lipid forms of amphotericin B, and newer antifungal drugs, including the echinocandins. In view of the changing treatment of pulmonary fungal infections, the American Thoracic Society convened a working group of experts in fungal infections to develop a concise clinical statement of current therapeutic options for those fungal infections of particular relevance to pulmonary and critical care practice. This document focuses on three primary areas of concern: the endemic mycoses, including histoplasmosis, sporotrichosis, blastomycosis, and coccidioidomycosis; fungal infections of special concern for immune-compromised and critically ill patients, including cryptococcosis, aspergillosis, candidiasis, and Pneumocystis pneumonia; and rare and emerging fungal infections.
Collapse
|
21
|
Abstract
Blastomycosis is endemic in regions of North America that border the Great Lakes and the St. Lawrence River, as well as in the Mississippi River and Ohio River basins. Men are affected more often than women and children because men are more likely to participate in activities that put them at risk for exposure to Blastomyces dermatitidis. Human infection occurs when soil containing microfoci of mycelia is disturbed and airborne conidia are inhaled. If natural defenses in the alveoli fail to contain the infection, lymphohematogenous dissemination ensues. Normal host responses generate a characteristic pyogranulomatous reaction. The most common sites of clinical disease are the lung and skin; osseous, genitourinary, and central nervous system manifestations follow in decreasing order of frequency. Blastomycosis is one of the great mimickers in medicine; verrucous cutaneous blastomycosis resembles malignancy, and mass-like lung opacities due to B. dermatitidis often are confused with cancer. Blastomycosis may be clinically indistinguishable from tuberculosis. Diagnosis is based on culture and direct visualization of round, multinucleated yeast forms that produce daughter cells from a single broad-based bud. Although a long course of amphotericin B is usually curative, itraconazole is also highly effective and is the mainstay of therapy for most patients with blastomycosis.
Collapse
|
22
|
Abstract
BACKGROUND Blastomycosis is an uncommon male-predominant disease caused by the fungus Blastomyces dermatitidis. The lungs are most commonly affected, and other organs are usually involved by dissemination. Clinical feature and pathohistologic findings are similar to the appearance of squamous cell carcinoma. METHODS AND RESULTS A 52-year-old male patient who has lived as a farmer on the countryside in Argentina for 35 years presented with an initial histopathologic diagnosis of a squamous cell carcinoma of the right lower jaw. There was no history of pulmonary disease, in particular fever, coughing, or hemoptysis. Final pathohistologic evaluation after resection revealed B. dermatitidis infection. This article presents the first described case of oral manifestation of B. dermatitidis infection in Switzerland. CONCLUSIONS Manifestation of blastomycosis in oral tissue can mimic the feature of a squamous cell carcinoma and can therefore be a diagnostic pitfall that head and neck surgeons and a pathologist should be aware of.
Collapse
|
23
|
Lin MY, Chihara S, Smith KY, Kessler HA, Sha BE, Proia LA. Classic pyomyositis of the extremities as an unusual manifestation of Blastomyces dermatitidis: a report of two cases. Mycoses 2009; 53:356-9. [PMID: 19496934 DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0507.2009.01714.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Pyomyositis is an infection of skeletal muscle that, by definition, arises intramuscularly rather than secondarily from adjacent infection. It is usually associated with bacterial infection, particularly Staphylcococcus aureus. Fungi are rare causes, and Blastomyces dermatitidis has not been reported previously. In this case series, we report two cases of pyomyositis caused by B. dermatitidis. Cases were prospectively identified through routine clinical care at a single academic referral hospital. Two patients with complaints of muscle pain and subacute cough were treated at our hospital in 2007. Both patients were found to have pyomyositis caused by B. dermatitidis- in the quadriceps muscles in one patient, and in the calf muscle in another - by radiological imaging and fungal culture. Both were also diagnosed with pneumonia caused by B. dermatitidis (presumptive in one, confirmed in the other). There was no evidence of infection of adjacent structures, suggesting that the route of infection was likely direct haematogenous seeding of the muscle. A review of the literature confirmed that although B. dermatitidis has been described as causing axial muscle infection secondary to adjacent infection such as vertebral osteomyelitis, our description of isolated muscle involvement (classic pyomyositis) caused by B. dermatitidis, particularly of the extremity muscles, is unique. We conclude that B. dermatitidis is a potential cause of classic pyomyositis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael Y Lin
- Section of Infectious Diseases, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
24
|
Abstract
Muscle involvement is an extremely rare manifestation of blastomycosis. We, therefore, report a case of a large gluteal muscle abscess caused by Blastomyces dermatitidis in a young, immunocompetent male. In addition, we review the literature to further characterize the syndrome of skeletal muscle blastomycosis.
Collapse
|
25
|
Martín-Dávila P, Fortún J, López-Vélez R, Norman F, Montes de Oca M, Zamarrón P, González MI, Moreno A, Pumarola T, Garrido G, Candela A, Moreno S. Transmission of tropical and geographically restricted infections during solid-organ transplantation. Clin Microbiol Rev 2008; 21:60-96. [PMID: 18202437 PMCID: PMC2223841 DOI: 10.1128/cmr.00021-07] [Citation(s) in RCA: 113] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent years, the increasing number of donors from different regions of the world is providing a new challenge for the management and selection of suitable donors. This is a worldwide problem in most countries with transplantation programs, especially due to the increase in immigration and international travel. This paper elaborates recommendations regarding the selection criteria for donors from foreign countries who could potentially transmit tropical or geographically restricted infections to solid-organ transplant recipients. For this purpose, an extensive review of the medical literature focusing on viral, fungal, and parasitic infections that could be transmitted during transplantation from donors who have lived or traveled in countries where these infections are endemic has been performed, with special emphasis on tropical and imported infections. The review also includes cases described in the literature as well as risks of transmission during transplantation, microbiological tests available, and recommendations for each infection. A table listing different infectious agents with their geographic distributions and specific recommendations is included.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- P Martín-Dávila
- Servicio de Enfermedades Infecciosas, Hospital Ramón y Cajal, Ctra. Colmenar km. 9,100, 28034 Madrid, Spain.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
26
|
Abstract
This article reviews the pathophysiology of spinal infection and its relevance for imaging. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the modality with by far the best sensitivity and specificity for spinal infection. The imaging appearances of spinal infection in MRI are outlined, and imaging techniques are discussed. The problems of clinical diagnosis are outlined. There is some emphasis on the MRI differentiation of pyogenic and nonpyogenic infection and on the differential diagnosis of spinal infection centered on the imaging presentation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bernhard J Tins
- Department of Radiology, The Robert Jones & Agnes Hunt Orthopaedic Hospital, Oswestry, Shropshire, United Kingdom.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
27
|
Abstract
The endemic mycoses are diverse group of fungi that share several characteristics. They are able to cause disease in healthy hosts, they each occupy a specific ecologic niche in the environment, and they exhibit temperature dimorphism, existing as molds in the environment at temperature of 25 degrees C to 30 degrees C, and as yeasts, or spherules in the case of coccidioidomycosis, at body temperatures. This article discusses histoplasmosis and blastomycosis. Sporotrichosis, which differs in that it is usually a localized lymphocutaneous infection, is included because it shares the characteristics of endemic mycoses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carol A Kauffman
- University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Abstract
UNLABELLED Fungal infections of the spine are relatively uncommon. Fungi such as Coccidioides immitis and Blastomyces dermatitidis are limited to specific geographical areas whereas cryptococcus, candida, and aspergillus are found worldwide. Candida and aspergillus are normal commensals of the body and produce disease in susceptible organisms when they gain access to the vascular system through intravenous lines, during implantation of prosthetic devices, or during surgery. For the other fungi, spinal involvement usually is the result of hematogenous or direct spread of organisms from an initial pulmonary source of infection. Involvement of the vertebral bodies can lead to vertebral compression fractures and gross deformity of the spine. Spread of infection along the anterior longitudinal ligament can lead to psoas or paravertebral abscesses. Early recognition of the disease requires a high index of suspicion, proper travel history, and a detailed physical examination. Treatment relies on the prompt institution of appropriate pharmacotherapy and constant monitoring of clinical progress. Resistance to medical therapy, spinal instability, and neurologic deficits are indications for débridement and stabilization with spinal fusion. Prognosis depends on the premorbid state of the patient, the type of fungal organism, and the timing of treatment. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Level V (expert opinion). Please see the Guidelines for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Choll W Kim
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of California, San Diego, California, USA.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
29
|
Abstract
UNLABELLED Spinal infections affect the vertebral bodies, the intervertebral disks, the spinal canal, and the paravertebral soft tissues and structures. A delay in diagnosis can result in spine deformity, substantial neurologic complications, and even death. Because of this, a high level of awareness is required by physicians in order to diagnose infections of the spine promptly. Advances in medical microbiologic testing and newer imaging methods have contributed considerably to the medical treatment of these infections. Through careful followup, less invasive approaches orchestrated by a multidisciplinary team that includes a spine surgeon, an infectious diseases specialist, and a neuroradiologist may be sufficient to treat patients with these infections. Research done through multidisciplinary collaborations will further advance our knowledge for the successful treatment of spinal infections. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Level V (expert opinion). Please see the Guidelines for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sotirios Tsiodras
- 4th Academic Department of Internal Medicine, Attikon General Hospital, Athens University Medical School, Athens, Greece
| | | |
Collapse
|
30
|
Oxenham MF, Thuy NK, Cuong NL. Skeletal evidence for the emergence of infectious disease in bronze and iron age northern Vietnam. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PHYSICAL ANTHROPOLOGY 2005; 126:359-76. [PMID: 15386222 DOI: 10.1002/ajpa.20048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Human skeletal evidence for the emergence of chronic infectious disease in northern Vietnam is examined. The sample includes the remains of 192 individuals representing the Mid-Holocene and Bronze to Iron Ages. The objective is to see if the transition from sedentary, foraging, coastally oriented economies to centralized chiefdoms with attendant development and intensification of agriculture, trade, metal technologies, warfare, and population increase was accompanied by an emergence of and/or increase in infectious disease. It was found that skeletal evidence for infectious disease was absent in the Mid-Holocene, while over 10% of the Metal period sample exhibited lesions consistent with either infectious disease or immune system disorders. Factors potentially contributing to the emergence of infectious disease in northern Vietnam in the Metal period include: increased contact with bacterial or fungal pathogens either directly or by way of vertebrate and/or arthropod vectors; higher levels of debilitation and/or decreased levels of immunocompetence in the Metal period; and evolution of pathogens present in Mid-Holocene human hosts into more virulent forms in the Metal period. The first two factors may be related to historically and archaeologically documented major demographic (Han colonizing efforts) and economic (agricultural intensification) changes in the region during the Metal period.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marc F Oxenham
- School of Archaeology and Anthropology, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 0200, Australia.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
31
|
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To report a case of spinal intramedullary blastomycosis causing myelopathy. CLINICAL PRESENTATION An otherwise healthy 13-year-old patient was diagnosed with respiratory North American blastomycosis. She subsequently received a five-month course of itraconazole with presumed resolution of the infection. The patient presented again at 14 years of age with a lumbar myelopathy. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed an intramedullary lesion of 1 cm diameter at the level of T12-L1. INTERVENTION A T12-L1 laminectomy was performed with a gross total resection of the lesion. Pathological examination and microbiological culture of the specimen was consistent with blastomycosis. Postoperatively, the patient was placed on a five week course of amphotericin B. The patient showed substantial improvement in neurological function. CONCLUSION Blastomycosis can present as an isolated intramedullary lesion causing compromised function. It should be considered in the differential diagnosis of a patient with a myelopathy and previously recognized blastomycosis. The prognosis is good with surgical resection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A M Parr
- Division of Neurosurgery, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | | |
Collapse
|
32
|
Abstract
The presentation of blastomycosis clinically and radiographically is nonspecific and often mistaken for a neoplasm. Delay in diagnosis is common. Patients with osseous blastomycosis present with pain and swelling. Radiographs usually show an eccentric lucency in the distal ends of long bones. These patients frequently are referred for a neoplastic workup and a diagnosis is made only after biopsy. We review the cases of five patients diagnosed with a bone tumor who had blastomycosis osteomyelitis. The time to diagnosis from original symptoms was 4.7 months (range, 3-8 months). The average age of the patients was 45.6 years (range, 20-59 years). A Musculoskeletal Tumor Society functional assessment was done. Early radiographs of the current patients ranged from normal to showing faint osteopenia in the involved location. As the disease progressed, the area of lucency appeared with either diffuse or well-marginated borders. Treatment included surgical debridement with antifungals. The mean functional score was 93.3%. All patients are disease-free. Blastomycosis, similar to tuberculosis, often is mistaken for a neoplasm. Blastomycosis osteomyelitis can be treated with excellent results. The key is diagnosis and including endemic fungal infections in the differential diagnosis of bone tumors. In addition, every potential neoplasm should include cultures of specimens obtained at biopsy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paul Saiz
- Flagstaff Center for Bone and Joint Disorders Flagstaff, AZ 86001, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
33
|
|
34
|
|
35
|
Muñiz AE, Evans T. Chronic paronychia, osteomyelitis, and paravertebral abscess in a child with blastomycosis. J Emerg Med 2000; 19:245-8. [PMID: 11033269 DOI: 10.1016/s0736-4679(00)00243-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Blastomycosis is an unusual fungal infection in children. It is often a chronic infection characterized by granulomatous and suppurative lesions. Clinical manifestations include either pulmonary findings or disseminated disease. Disseminated blastomycosis usually begins with a lung infection that spreads to the skin, bones, and central nervous system. This is a case report of a child with chronic blastomycosis presenting with chronic paronychia, fever, cough, malaise, and back pain. The child underwent surgical drainage of a paravertebral abscess and administration of intravenous amphotericin B. He was discharged in good condition on oral therapy with ketoconazole. The literature on blastomycosis, with particular emphasis on clinical presentations and management, is reviewed. When the history and physical examination suggest a chronic granulomatous or disseminated disease, such as tuberculosis, the physician must include blastomycosis in the differential.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A E Muñiz
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Medical College of Virginia of Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia 23298-0401, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|