Infections of the central nervous system by melanized fungi: a review of cases presented between 1999 and 2004.
Several types of infections of the central nervous system by melanized fungi can be distinguished: (a) single-organ infection of the cerebrum, (b) extension into the cerebrum from adjacent cavities, (c) fungal presence in the cerebrospinal fluid, or (d) meningitis. The fungal order Chaetothyriales (containing Exophiala-like black yeasts and relatives) is particularly rich in fungi causing cerebral infections. Cases by the main agents, Cladophialophora bantiana, Exophiala dermatitidis, and Ramichloridium mackenziei, published during the last 5 years are reviewed. Most of these infections prove to be fatal. Resection of the lesions in combination with antimycotic therapy may reduce mortality.
Kantarcioglu
A S
AS
Department of Microbiology and Clinical Microbiology, Cerrahpasa Medical Faculty, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey.
de Hoog
G S
GS
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000935:Antifungal Agents / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use; D001203:Ascomycota / Q000187:drug effects / Q000302:isolation & purification / Q000378:metabolism; D020314:Central Nervous System Fungal Infections / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000382:microbiology* / Q000601:surgery; D002648:Child; D025141:Drug Resistance, Fungal; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008826:Microbial Sensitivity Tests; D008875:Middle Aged; D003904:Mitosporic Fungi / Q000187:drug effects / Q000302:isolation & purification / Q000378:metabolism; D010860:Pigments, Biological / Q000096:biosynthesis*
D000935:Antifungal Agents; D010860:Pigments, Biological