Tropicoporus tropicalis: A Newly Recognised Pathogen in Eumycetoma and Refractory Mycoses in Humans
Issued Date
2024-10-01
Resource Type
ISSN
09337407
eISSN
14390507
Scopus ID
2-s2.0-85207548848
Journal Title
Mycoses
Volume
67
Issue
10
Rights Holder(s)
SCOPUS
Bibliographic Citation
Mycoses Vol.67 No.10 (2024)
Suggested Citation
Rattananukrom T., Arenas R., Aquino C., Martínez-Hernandez F., Hernandez-Castro R. Tropicoporus tropicalis: A Newly Recognised Pathogen in Eumycetoma and Refractory Mycoses in Humans. Mycoses Vol.67 No.10 (2024). doi:10.1111/myc.13805 Retrieved from: https://repository.li.mahidol.ac.th/handle/20.500.14594/101902
Title
Tropicoporus tropicalis: A Newly Recognised Pathogen in Eumycetoma and Refractory Mycoses in Humans
Corresponding Author(s)
Other Contributor(s)
Abstract
Tropicoporus tropicalis (formerly Phellinus tropicalis) is a saprophytic basidiomycete that has been implicated in refractory mycoses in humans, particularly in patients with chronic granulomatous disease. Despite its clinical significance, T. tropicalis is an under-recognised cause of eumycetoma, with no prior reports available. We present a case of white grain eumycetoma with associated osteomyelitis of the left foot, caused by T. tropicalis, confirmed through 18S-ITS1-5.8S-ITS2-28S rRNA gene amplification and sequencing. The patient was treated with itraconazole 200 mg daily, leading to gradual improvement. A review of the literature on T. tropicalis infections in humans reveals its characteristic manifestations, which include osteomyelitis, soft tissue abscesses, pulmonary nodules and keratitis. These infections are locally destructive but have the potential to disseminate. Diagnosis is often delayed and relies on molecular techniques. Amphotericin B combined with an azole appears to be the most effective treatment, often necessitating concurrent surgical drainage. In conclusion, T. tropicalis is a newly recognised pathogen associated with eumycetoma and poses an increased risk of osteomyelitis. Molecular identification, such as sequencing the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region from cultures or tissue specimens, is crucial for accurate identification of this pathogen.