Scedosporiosis

Scedosporiosis
Synonyms
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	Infectious disease, Pulmonology
Symptoms	Fever, cough, shortness of breath, chest pain, fatigue
Complications	Disseminated infection, central nervous system involvement, osteomyelitis
Onset
Duration
Types
Causes	Scedosporium apiospermum, Scedosporium prolificans
Risks	Immunocompromised state, cystic fibrosis, trauma
Diagnosis	Culture, histopathology, molecular methods
Differential diagnosis	Aspergillosis, mucormycosis, bacterial pneumonia
Prevention
Treatment	Antifungal therapy, surgical debridement
Medication	Voriconazole, posaconazole, amphotericin B
Prognosis	Variable, depends on immune status and extent of disease
Frequency	Rare
Deaths	N/A

Scedosporiosis is a rare infection caused by the fungus Scedosporium. This fungus is found in soil, sewage, and polluted water. People with weakened immune systems are more likely to get this infection.

Causes

The Scedosporium fungus is found in soil, sewage, and polluted water. It can enter the body through the skin, especially if there is a cut or wound. It can also be inhaled into the lungs. People with weakened immune systems are more likely to get this infection.

Symptoms

Symptoms of scedosporiosis can vary depending on the part of the body that is infected. They can include:

• Skin infection: Red, painful, swollen skin that may have a pus-filled sore.
• Lung infection: Cough, chest pain, and difficulty breathing.
• Sinus infection: Facial pain, nasal congestion, and discharge.
• Brain infection: Headache, fever, and changes in mental status.

Diagnosis

Scedosporiosis is diagnosed by taking a sample of the infected tissue and examining it under a microscope. The fungus can also be grown in a laboratory for further testing.

Treatment

Treatment for scedosporiosis usually involves antifungal medications. In severe cases, surgery may be needed to remove infected tissue.

Prevention

Prevention of scedosporiosis involves avoiding contact with soil, sewage, and polluted water, especially if you have a weakened immune system or a skin wound.

See also

• Fungal infection
• Immunodeficiency
• Antifungal medication