Sporotrichosis is a fungal infection caused by Sporothrix schenckii. Cutaneous infections are the most common form of infection but pulmonary infections can occur. The symptoms of a cutaneous infection can include a small painless nodule that may appear on the fingers, hands, or arms where the fungus entered the body. The nodule may become larger and look like an open sore or ulcer. Infections may become disseminated to other parts of the body include bones, joints, and CNS but this usually only occurs in individuals with weakened immune systems.
The fungus lives in sphagnum moss, hay or other plant materieral.
Transmission
Transmission occurs when the fungus enters the skin through a cut or puncture in the skin.
Sporotrichosis is not spread person to person.
Incubation period is 7 to 30 days.
Lab Tests & Specimen Info
Test*
|
Specimen
|
Culture
|
Drainage (pus),
Abscess Drainage, Skin Biopsy |
Standard precautions are recommended in healthcare settings.
Prevention for Patients
- Wearing protective clothing such as gloves and long sleeves when handing wires, rose bushes, bales of hay, pine seedlings or other material that may cause minor cuts
- Avoid contact with sphagnum moss
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