Apophysomyces variabilis

Apophysomyces variabilis is a species of fungus that belongs to the Mucorales order. It is a thermophilic fungus, meaning it thrives in high-temperature environments. This species is known for its ability to cause mucormycosis, a rare but serious fungal infection in humans.

Taxonomy[edit | edit source]

The genus Apophysomyces was first described by Misra et al. in 1979. The species Apophysomyces variabilis was later described by Alvarez et al. in 2010. It is one of the four species in the Apophysomyces genus, the others being Apophysomyces elegans, Apophysomyces trapeziformis, and Apophysomyces ossiformis.

Morphology[edit | edit source]

Apophysomyces variabilis is characterized by its sporangia that are variable in shape and size, hence the name "variabilis". The sporangia are typically globose or subglobose and contain numerous sporangiospores. The sporangiophores are simple or branched and arise from well-developed rhizoids.

Pathogenicity[edit | edit source]

Apophysomyces variabilis is a pathogenic fungus that can cause mucormycosis, a rare but serious infection. The infection can occur in various parts of the body, including the sinuses, brain, lungs, skin, and gastrointestinal tract. It is particularly dangerous for individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS, diabetes, or those undergoing chemotherapy or organ transplantation.

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment for Apophysomyces variabilis infection typically involves a combination of antifungal therapy, surgical debridement of infected tissues, and management of underlying conditions that may have weakened the patient's immune system. The antifungal drug amphotericin B is commonly used in the treatment of mucormycosis.