Mycetoma chromo blastomycosis and other deep mycses are chronic infections of the subcutaneous and cutaneous tissues. The lesions that develop from the disease are clinically polymorphic, ranging from nodules to tumoral nodules. Patients often contract the disease through injury to the lungs, bones, or abdominal viscera. The most common portals of entry are the gastrointestinal tract, blood vessels, and central nervous system.
Geographical distribution
Both chromoblastomycose and mycetoma have wide geographical distribution and are found in tropical regions of South and Southeast Asia, Latin America, and Africa. Most cases have been reported in the Trans-African mycetoma belt, which includes the countries of Senegal, Sierra Leone, Sudan, and western Africa. The fungi responsible for the infection are often invasive, infecting a wide variety of tissues and organs.
Location of infection
Treatment for mycetoma depends on the type and location of infection. Most of the treatments are very expensive and may take years to work. Antifungal medications and surgery are recommended for early diagnosis and treatment. Surgical removal is an option for those with small lesions. For more extensive disease, oral antifungal therapy is the preferred treatment. However, severe cases often recur despite ongoing treatment.
Symptoms
The symptoms of mycetoma are a painful and persistent infection. It is often an occupational disease and affects workers in farm labour, coconut harvesters, and lumberjacks. Fortunately, this infection is curable and can be treated. Although it is rare, it is fatal. In severe cases, amputation may be necessary. The fungi responsible for mycetoma chromoblastostomycosis are often asymptomatic, requiring surgery.
