MYCOLab Ai Logo - gold and army green

Bridging gaps in the elimination of deep mycoses: a comparative analysis of mycetoma and chromoblastomycosis control strategies in Rwanda and China

Summary

Mycetoma and chromoblastomycosis are serious fungal infections that primarily affect poor communities in tropical regions, causing permanent disability and limb loss. This review compares how China and Rwanda are tackling these diseases, finding that China has advanced laboratories and testing methods while Rwanda excels at reaching rural communities. The study recommends that both countries work together, combining China’s advanced diagnostic technology with Rwanda’s successful community health approach to better control these neglected diseases.

Background

Deep mycoses, including mycetoma and chromoblastomycosis, are chronic fungal infections affecting marginalized populations in tropical and subtropical regions. These neglected tropical diseases cause progressive tissue destruction, disability, and stigmatization, yet global control strategies remain limited despite WHO inclusion in the 2021-2030 NTD roadmap.

Objective

This review provides a cross-case comparative evaluation of mycetoma and chromoblastomycosis control strategies in Rwanda and China by assessing epidemiology, diagnostics, treatment accessibility, and policy frameworks to identify transferable approaches for disease elimination.

Results

China demonstrates advanced surveillance systems, molecular diagnostics (PCR, NGS), and treatment protocols with 68% improvement rates for chromoblastomycosis, while Rwanda relies on community-based approaches but lacks fungal expertise and diagnostic capacity. Both countries face challenges with limited rural healthcare access and lack mycetoma as a notifiable disease, hindering effective surveillance and resource allocation.

Conclusion

China’s molecular diagnostics and surveillance frameworks could benefit Rwanda if adapted for resource constraints, while Rwanda’s community health worker model could strengthen China’s rural outreach. Key recommendations include declaring mycetoma notifiable, developing affordable diagnostic tools, enhancing surveillance systems, and promoting international cooperation to meet WHO 2030 elimination targets.
  • Published in:Tropical Medicine and Health,
  • Study Type:Narrative Review,
  • Source: PMID: 40855349, DOI: 10.1186/s41182-025-00778-6
Scroll to Top