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.
Department of Microbiology and Clinical Microbiology, Cerrahpasa Medical Faculty, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey.
A S
AS
Kantarcioglu
G S
GS
de Hoog
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