Concurrent chromoblastomycosis and subcutaneous phaeohyphomycosis by different pathogens in a renal transplant recipient

Abstract

Chromoblastomycosis and subcutaneous phaeohyphomycosis are implantation mycoses caused by melanized fungi. We present a unique case of concurrent chromoblastomycosis by Fonsecaea monophora and phaeohyphomycosis by Medicopsis romeroi presenting as polypoidal wrist lesion and painless cystic toe lesion respectively in a renal transplant recipient. The diagnosis was confirmed by microbiological (including molecular identification by sequencing of ITS region of rDNA) and histopathological examination. The wrist lesion was surgically excised. Oral itraconazole and topical luliconazole led to healing of both lesions within six months of therapy. This case highlights the emergence of rare opportunistic fungal pathogens causing concurrent skin infections in an immunocompromised patient. This warrants investigation of their epidemiology and virulence to implement preventive measures in renal transplant recipients.