Subcutaneous mycoses

Fungal infections confined to the dermis, subcutaneous tissue or adjacent structures. Infection may arise following the wounding of the skin and the introduction of vegetable matter.

These mycoses are rare and confined mainly to tropical regions. They tend to be slow in onset and chronic in duration. An example is Sporotrichosis caused by Sporothrix schenckii. Sporotrichosis was once common in Europe but cases are now rare. The disease is most prevalent the Americas, South Africa and Australia. Infection usually follows and insect bite, thorn prick or scratch from a fish spine. Certain occupation groups appear to have increased risk from infection. These include florists, farm workers and others who handle hay and moss. The most common symptom is a ulcerative lesion that may develop into lymphangitis.