Fungal thalamic abscess caused by Rhinocladiella mackenziei in an immunocompetent patient

Indian J Med Microbiol. 2024 May 23:49:100605. doi: 10.1016/j.ijmmb.2024.100605. Online ahead of print.

Abstract

Cerebral phaeohyphomycosis (CP) stands as an exceedingly uncommon yet severe type of fungal infection affecting the central nervous system, attributable to dematiaceous fungi. Despite the patient's immune status, CP is associated with grave prognosis. In the present study, authors describe the first case of left thalamic fungal abscess due to Rhinocladiella mackenziei in an immunocompetent 39-year-old male patient in Jaipur, Rajasthan. Early diagnosis by direct microscopy of aspirated pus and extensive management with surgical excision and prolonged antifungal coverage showed favourable outcome. The present case is one of the few cases documented globally who has survived.

Keywords: Cerebral phaeohyphomycosis; Dematiaceous fungi; Rhinocladiella mackenziei.

Publication types

  • Case Reports