MYCOLab Ai Logo - gold and army green

Madurella tropicana and Madurella pseudomycetomatis identified as new causative agents of black grain eumycetoma in Senegal

Summary

This case report describes two patients in Senegal with a serious fungal infection called eumycetoma caused by previously unidentified fungal species. Using modern DNA sequencing methods, researchers identified the infections as being caused by Madurella tropicana and Madurella pseudomycetomatis, rather than the previously known Madurella mycetomatis. One patient treated with the antifungal drug itraconazole showed good improvement, highlighting the importance of accurate identification for proper treatment.

Background

Eumycetoma is a neglected tropical disease characterized by tumorous lesions in subcutaneous tissues. While Madurella mycetomatis is the predominant species identified in Senegal, other Madurella species remain morphologically indistinguishable and may be misidentified using traditional methods.

Objective

This study reports two cases of mycetoma caused by Madurella tropicana and Madurella pseudomycetomatis in Senegal, identified using molecular diagnostic tools, to highlight the importance of accurate species-level identification for treatment and epidemiological understanding.

Results

Molecular identification confirmed Madurella tropicana (99.55% identity to CBS201.38) in one case and Madurella pseudomycetomatis (100% identity to CBS129177) in another case. The patient with M. pseudomycetomatis showed favorable response to itraconazole therapy with fistula closure within six months.

Conclusion

Madurella pseudomycetomatis and Madurella tropicana are endemic in Senegal and should be considered as possible etiological agents of eumycetoma. Molecular biology tools are essential for accurate species-level identification to prevent misdiagnosis and guide appropriate treatment strategies.
  • Published in:Medical Mycology Case Reports,
  • Study Type:Case Report,
  • Source: PMID: 40822864
Scroll to Top