Disseminated cutaneous and peritoneal hyalohyphomycosis caused by Fusarium species: three cases and review of the literature

Abstract

Three recent cases of hyalohyphomycosis caused by Fusarium sp. illustrate differing aspects of infections produced by these organisms. One patient was undergoing continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis when peritonitis developed caused by Fusarium moniliforme. Removal of the catheter and amphotericin B were used in successful management. In a neutropenic patient on therapy for leukemia, multiple persistent infections occurred including JK diptheroids, and Candida albicans sepsis. Finally, numerous florid skin lesions caused by Fusarium oxysporum developed even while the patient was receiving amphotericin B and he died. In a second neutropenic patient on treatment for leukemia, sinus and cutaneous lesions developed due to Fusarium. These resolved on amphotericin B therapy following the return of circulating neutrophils. The literature on Fusarium infections and aspects of the biology of the organism are reviewed.