Basidiobolomycosis: a case of a rare fungal infection misdiagnosed as adenocarcinoma of the colon

Abstract

Background: Basidiobolomycosis is a rare infection caused by the fungus Basidiobolus ranarum. Since 1887, B. ranarum has been identified as an unusual fungus. It is a saprophytic fungus found in soil, decaying fruits and vegetables, and the digestive tracts of amphibians, fish, reptiles, and insectivorous bats. Since its discovery in 1964, this unusual and rare fungal infection has only been reported 71 times in the literature, and few cases were reported in Saudi Arabia. Case Presentation: A 62-year-old female Burmese with a 2-month history of nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and chronic abdominal pain, accompanied by weight loss, loss of appetite, and lower limb myopathy was pre sented. This myopathy was so severe that it rendered her bedridden, thereby diminishing her quality of life. No hemoptysis or bleeding per rectum was seen. Past surgical and medical history were unremarkable. No med ications or allergies were reported. Regarding her social history, she was married and a housewife with low socioeconomic status, and a significant language barrier. The patient was successfully diagnosed and properly treated. Conclusion: Basidiobolomycosis is an emerging fungal pathogen. It usually causes subcutaneous infection, transmitted via traumatic inoculation. Gastrointestinal basidiobolomycosis is rare; it is associated with mass or inflammatory lesions in the gastrointestinal tract.