Clinicopathological spectrum of Deep Fungal infections: A tertiary care center Experience

Dr. Vijay Kumar Gupta; Dr. Pallavi Agrawal; Dr. N K Bariar

Volume : VII, Issue : V, May - 2018

Clinicopathological spectrum of Deep Fungal infections: A tertiary care center Experience

Dr. Vijay Kumar Gupta, Dr. Pallavi Agrawal, Dr. N K Bariar

Abstract :

Background: The deep cutaneous mycosis involves the dermis and subcutaneous tissues and often spread to systemic organ systems. A histopathological examination is mandatory for definite diagnosis which helps in recognition of the fungus and early treatment of the infection avoiding dissemination and fatality in untreated infections

Aims: To study the clinicopathological spectrum of deep fungal infections

Methods: A total of 22 cases were studied in detail with a confirmedhistopathologcal diagnosis of deepfungal infection.All the biopsies were fixed in 10% formalin and sent for histopathological examination.The biopsies were stained with hematoxylin and eosin (H and E). Special stains including periodic acid Schiff (PAS), and Grocott‘s methenamine silver (GMS) were done for identification of fungus. The histopathological and cytological features were noted.

Results:Among these cases, 18/22(%) cases had clinical suspicion of fungal infection. The clinical symptoms varied from nodules, ulcerative plaque, pustule, to sinus tract formation.The dermis showed varied tissue reactions which included necrotizing inflammation, neutrophillic infiltrate, giant cell reaction, granulomas and lymphoplasmacytic infiltrate.

Conclusions: We conclude that PAS and Grocott’s methenamine stains are essential in addition to a well fixed skin biopsy for H&E for a definite diagnosis of deep fungal infections.