MYCOLab Ai Logo - gold and army green

Analyses of the Genetic Diversity and Population Structures of Sporothrix spp. Clinical Isolates from Paraíba, Brazil

Summary

Researchers in Brazil studied a fungal disease called sporotrichosis that spreads from animals to humans, particularly through cat scratches. All 36 fungal samples from infected patients in Paraíba state were identified as the same species (S. brasiliensis) with very similar genetic profiles, suggesting they came from a common source. The disease predominantly affects women and causes skin lesions on the arms and legs, with about 98% of cases linked to cat contact. The findings suggest implementing better disease control measures and using molecular tests for faster diagnosis.

Background

Sporotrichosis is a subcutaneous mycosis of global distribution affecting humans and animals, caused by species of the genus Sporothrix spp. Brazil has experienced an advance of the disease since 1998, particularly in the southeast, with recent increases in the northeastern region. In Paraíba, sporotrichosis became a notifiable disease in 2018, with increasing case numbers annually.

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate the genetic diversity and mating type distribution of clinical isolates of human sporotrichosis in Paraíba, Brazil, to understand the population structure, epidemiology, and diversification of this pathogen, and to explore possible transmission routes.

Results

All 36 isolates were confirmed as S. brasiliensis with a single sexual idiomorph (MAT1-2) detected. The majority of cases (75%) occurred in females with 69% presenting lymphocutaneous form and 98% zoonotic transmission. AFLP analysis indicated circulation of one or two genetic groups in João Pessoa and metropolitan regions with low intraspecific diversity.

Conclusion

This is the first genetic characterization of Sporothrix isolates in Paraíba state, all identified as S. brasiliensis. The presence of only MAT1-2 idiomorph and low genetic diversity suggest a founder effect likely originating from Rio de Janeiro, indicating predominantly clonal transmission predominantly through cats.
  • Published in:Journal of Fungi (Basel),
  • Study Type:Clinical Study,
  • Source: PMID: 39728344
Scroll to Top