Abstract :
Sporotrichosis is a chronic pyogranulomatous fungal infection of cutaneous and subcutaneous tissues which remain localised or may occasionally disseminate to other parts of the body. The causative agent is a thermally dimorphic environmental saprotrophic fungus, Sporothrix schenckii which enters the body through scratches or cuts in the skin. Diabetes, alcoholism, AIDS, leukemia, patients on corticosteroids, chemotherapeutic agents and patients with pre-existing lung disease are important predisposing factors. Here, we report a 65 year old female patient with history of diabetes mellitus for the past 12 years, presented with a leg ulcer and pus discharge for the past 2 years, which did not respond to antibiotic therapy. On examination, a single ulcer of 4x3 cm size was present over the plantar aspect of left foot with pus discharge. Pus was sent for bacteriological and fungal culture identification which revealed growth of Staphylococcus aureus and Sporothrix schenckii respectively. Slide culture and histopathological examination confirmed Sporothrix schenckii. Patient was treated with saturated solution of potassium iodide(SSKI) oral drops and itraconazole and followed up for the regression of lesions.
Keyword :
Sporotrichosis, Diabetes Mellitus, Slide Culture, SSKI