Aetiology
Disseminated sporotrichosis is a systemic fungal infection caused by the fungus Sporothrix schenckii. The infection is usually acquired through contact with infected soil, sphagnum moss, or other organic material. It can also be acquired through the bite of an infected animal, such as a cat or dog.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of disseminated sporotrichosis is based on clinical symptoms, physical findings, and laboratory tests. Symptoms may include skin lesions, fever, fatigue, and joint pain. Physical findings may include swelling of the lymph nodes and an enlarged spleen. Laboratory tests may include a fungal culture from a skin biopsy, a blood test, and a skin scraping to detect the presence of the fungus.
Differential diagnosis
Differential diagnosis of disseminated sporotrichosis includes other fungal infections, such as histoplasmosis, cryptococcosis, and blastomycosis, as well as bacterial infections, such as cat scratch fever and tularemia.
Treatment
Treatment of disseminated sporotrichosis typically involves the use of antifungal medications, such as itraconazole or amphotericin B. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove infected tissue.
Prognosis
The prognosis of disseminated sporotrichosis is generally good with prompt and appropriate treatment. Most patients show improvement within a few weeks of starting treatment. However, some cases may require long-term treatment or have a more guarded prognosis.