Mold in an immunocompetent patient. Who is at risk?

Abstract

• A case of a primary cutaneous aspergillosis abscess in the submental area in an immunocompetent patient. • Our case demonstrates the consequences of a breach in the skin barrier as a possible risk factor for aspergillus infection. • More research is necessary to determine other causal relationships when infection occurs in an immunocompetent host. • This case signifies physicians should always consider aspergillosis in patients with non-healing cutaneous infections even if they are immunocompetent. A 29 year-old male presented with fevers, chills and induration of submental area. Cultures from the neck abscess grew Aspergillus fumigatus. Laboratory evaluation for possible immunosupression, including HIV, immunoglobulin and complement studies were within normal limits. Overall, he received four weeks of antifungal therapy until symptoms resolved. This case signifies physicians should always consider aspergillosis in patients with non-healing cutaneous infections even if they are immunocompetent.