Lobomycosis

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Lobomycosis
Lobomycosis on the arm
Synonyms	Jorge Lobo's disease, Keloidal blastomycosis, Lacaziosis
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	Infectious disease
Symptoms	Keloid-like nodules, plaques, ulceration
Complications	Secondary infection, disfigurement
Onset	Gradual
Duration	Chronic
Types	N/A
Causes	Lacazia loboi
Risks	Tropical and subtropical climates, Amazon rainforest
Diagnosis	Skin biopsy, histopathology
Differential diagnosis	Leprosy, Cutaneous leishmaniasis, Chromoblastomycosis
Prevention	Avoidance of trauma in endemic areas
Treatment	Surgical excision, antifungal therapy
Medication	Clofazimine, Itraconazole
Prognosis	Variable, often chronic
Frequency	Rare
Deaths	N/A

Lobomycosis (also known as Lobo's disease) is a rare fungal infection that primarily affects the skin and subcutaneous tissues. It is caused by the fungus Lacazia loboi, which is found in tropical and subtropical regions, particularly in Central and South America.

Etiology

Lobomycosis is caused by the fungus Lacazia loboi. This fungus is not found in the environment, but is believed to be transmitted through direct contact with an infected individual or animal, particularly dolphins.

Clinical Presentation

The disease typically presents as keloid-like nodules on the skin, which can coalesce to form plaques. These lesions are usually found on exposed areas of the body, such as the face, ears, and extremities. The disease is chronic and progressive, and can lead to significant disfigurement if left untreated.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of lobomycosis is based on clinical presentation and histopathological examination of skin biopsy specimens. The fungus Lacazia loboi can be seen in tissue sections as yeast-like cells arranged in chains or clusters.

Treatment

Treatment of lobomycosis is challenging due to the fungus's resistance to most antifungal drugs. Surgical excision of the lesions is often the treatment of choice. In some cases, antifungal drugs such as itraconazole or clofazimine may be used.

Epidemiology

Lobomycosis is endemic in certain regions of Central and South America, particularly in the Amazon basin. It is also seen in dolphins, which are believed to be a reservoir for the disease.

See Also

• Mycosis
• Tropical medicine
• Dermatology