Sporotrichosis infection on mines of the Witwatersrand

Abstract

Background: Our knowledge of skin disease is often based on fortuitous situations that have provided opportunities for observation and study of the disease. One of these diseases is sporotrichosis.

Objective: This article examines a symposium published in 1947 by the Transvaal Chamber of Mines in South Africa. It reviews the approach taken in the investigation of a large outbreak of sporotrichosis in the mine workers.

Conclusion: The investigation of this outbreak has contributed significantly to our present day knowledge of sporotrichosis, the causative organism, its mode of spread, and its clinical features. It is also a striking example of meticulous scientific research and observation.