CHROMOBLASTOMYCOSIS: A RARE CASE OF INFECTION BYFonsecaea compactaFROM WESTERN MAHARASHTRA, INDIA

Chromoblastomycosis is a fungal infection of the cutaneous and subcutaneous tissues. It is non contagious and chronic fungal infection. Several species of pheoid or dematacious fungi which are saprophytes are the causative agents. Infection occurs when the causative agent enters the body with trauma especially with wood splinters or thorn pricks. Diagnosis is done by demonstration of sclerotic bodies or Medlar bodies in KOH mounts and histopathological examination, culture on Sabourauds agar and by Molecular and Serological methods.

Case Presentation:

A 50 year old male patient presented with. multiple plaques over the scalp and on the nape of the neck over the last 1 month, It was associated with itching. He did not give any history of injury but carried wood on his head and shoulders. The condition was diagnosed as Tinea capitis and skin scrapings sent for microscopic examination and fungal culture. Laboratory diagnosis.The diagnosis of Chromoblastomycosis by Fonsecaea. compacta (F. compacta) was made based on the finding of sclerotic bodies in KOH mounts and characteristic growth on SDA. Conclusions:- Chromoblastomycosis presenting as a plaque like lesions should be considered as it may be confused with other superficial dermatic lesions.