Sporotrichosis

Sporothrix schenckii is a low-virulence, dimorphic fungus found in soil and decaying plant matter. Humans acquire the infection when the organism is inoculated into the skin or subcutaneous tissue. As such, sporotrichosis typically occurs in those who engage in outdoor vocational or recreational activities such as landscaping or gardening.

The first manifestation is typically a painless papule at the site of inoculation, which soon ulcerates and drains a nonpurulent, odorless fluid. Over days, similar lesions usually develop along the proximal lymphatic chain. History and physical examination are often sufficient for diagnosis, but cultures from aspirate fluid are typically obtained. Treatment with 3-6 months of itraconazole is usually curative.

Sporotrichosis