Successful Management of Chromoblastomycosis Utilizing Conventional Antifungal Agents and Imiquimod Therapy

Authors

Jinjin Zheng
Shougang Liu
Zhenmou Xie
Yangxia Chen
Liyan Xi
Hongfang Liu
Yinghui Liu

Publication Date

6-20-2024

Journal

Annals of Clinical Microbiology and Antimicrobials

Abstract

Chromoblastomycosis (CBM), a chronic fungal infection affecting the skin and subcutaneous tissues, is predominantly caused by dematiaceous fungi in tropical and subtropical areas. Characteristically, CBM presents as plaques and nodules, often leading to scarring post-healing. Besides traditional diagnostic methods such as fungal microscopy, culture, and histopathology, dermatoscopy and reflectance confocal microscopy can aid in diagnosis. The treatment of CBM is an extended and protracted process. Imiquimod, acting as an immune response modifier, boosts the host's immune response against CBM, and controls scar hyperplasia, thereby reducing the treatment duration. We present a case of CBM in Guangdong with characteristic reflectance confocal microscopy manifestations, effectively managed through a combination of itraconazole, terbinafine, and imiquimod, shedding light on novel strategies for managing this challenging condition.

Keywords

Chromoblastomycosis, Reflectance confocal microscopy, Imiquimod, Treatment

Comments

PMID: 38902740