Cutaneous infection with Alternaria alternata complicating immunosuppression: successful treatment with itraconazole.
We report an immunosuppressed patient who presented with unusual leg ulceration caused by Alternaria alternata infection. Alternaria is a common saprophyte that is not usually pathogenic in humans. However, infections have previously been documented. Most cases occur in immunocompromised patients and the skin manifestations may vary considerably. The diagnosis is often missed initially as it is not frequently suspected. The treatment is controversial both in choice of agent used and in duration of therapy.
Acland
K M
KM
Department of Dermatology, UCL Hospitals Trust, London, U.K.
Hay
R J
RJ
Groves
R
R
D000368:Aged; D000528:Alternaria / Q000302:isolation & purification*; D000935:Antifungal Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D003881:Dermatomycoses / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000382:microbiology*; D006801:Humans; D016867:Immunocompromised Host; D017964:Itraconazole / Q000627:therapeutic use; D016030:Kidney Transplantation; D007868:Leg Dermatoses / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000382:microbiology*; D007871:Leg Ulcer / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000382:microbiology*; D008297:Male; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D000935:Antifungal Agents; D017964:Itraconazole