Gastrointestinal Basidiobolomycosis — An Emerging Disease

Cases of this fungal disease, first reported in the U.S. in 1986, are increasing in arid regions of the U.S. and worldwide.

Basidiobolus ranarum is a fungus found worldwide in soil, decaying organic matter, and the gastrointestinal tract of amphibians, fish, reptiles, and insectivorous bats. Although subcutaneous infection with this organism is common in the tropics, visceral infection has been rare — until recently. Gastrointestinal basidiobolomycosis (GIB) was first reported in the U.S. in 1986.

Researchers recently described 44 cases seen at their institution in Arizona, or reported from elsewhere, through March 2010. Cases were defined by histopathologic findings in biopsy or surgical specimens (i.e., necrotizing granulomatous inflammation, tissue eosinophilia, fungal elements indicative of a zygomycete, evidence of Splendore-Hoeppli phenomenon), culture of t…

Reviewing Author

Stephen G. Baum, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory BoardClinical Infectious Diseases

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Editorial BoardsMedical Letter

Stephen G. Baum, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory BoardClinical Infectious Diseases

RoyaltiesUpToDate

Editorial BoardsMedical Letter