Saksenaea

Saksenaea

Saksenaea is a genus of fungi in the order Mucorales, which is part of the phylum Zygomycota. This genus is known for its pathogenic species that can cause infections in humans, particularly in immunocompromised individuals. Saksenaea is characterized by its rapid growth and ability to produce distinctive sporangia.

Taxonomy

Saksenaea was first described by the mycologist R. Saksena in 1953. The type species of this genus is Saksenaea vasiformis. The genus is named in honor of the Indian mycologist R. Saksena.

Morphology

Saksenaea species are filamentous fungi that produce broad, aseptate hyphae. The sporangia are vase-shaped, which is a distinctive feature of this genus. The sporangiospores are released when the sporangium ruptures. The fungi grow rapidly on standard mycological media, forming colonies that are initially white and become grayish with age.

Pathogenicity

Saksenaea species are opportunistic pathogens, primarily affecting individuals with weakened immune systems. Infections can occur through traumatic implantation of the spores into the skin or through inhalation. The most common clinical manifestation is cutaneous mucormycosis, but it can also cause rhinocerebral mucormycosis and pulmonary mucormycosis.

Clinical Presentation

- Cutaneous infections: These typically present as necrotic lesions at the site of trauma. The lesions can progress rapidly, leading to extensive tissue damage. - Rhinocerebral infections: These are more severe and can involve the sinuses, brain, and eyes, leading to symptoms such as facial swelling, headache, and vision problems. - Pulmonary infections: These are less common but can occur in severely immunocompromised patients, presenting with symptoms like cough, fever, and chest pain.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of Saksenaea infections involves a combination of clinical evaluation, histopathological examination, and culture. Direct microscopy of tissue samples can reveal the characteristic broad, aseptate hyphae. Culturing the organism on Sabouraud dextrose agar can help in identifying the fungus based on its morphological features.

Treatment

Treatment of Saksenaea infections typically involves a combination of surgical debridement and antifungal therapy. The antifungal agents used include amphotericin B and posaconazole. Early diagnosis and aggressive treatment are crucial for improving patient outcomes.

Also see

- Mucormycosis - Zygomycota - Opportunistic infections - Fungal pathogens