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Simplicillium sinense sp. nov., a novel potential pathogen of tinea faciei

Summary

Researchers identified a new fungal species called Simplicillium sinense that caused a facial skin infection (tinea faciei) in a 46-year-old man with diabetes. The fungus was resistant to most common antifungal medications but responded well to terbinafine treatment. This is the first reported case of a Simplicillium infection causing facial ringworm, expanding our understanding of rare fungal pathogens.

Background

Simplicillium species are widely distributed fungi generally known as entomopathogenic or mycoparasitic organisms. While some isolates of Simplicillium lanosoniveum and Simplicillium obclavatum have been obtained from human tissues, human infections by Simplicillium species remain rare. This study reports a novel Simplicillium species isolated from facial skin lesions in a patient with diabetes mellitus.

Objective

To identify and characterize a novel fungal species isolated from tinea faciei in a 46-year-old male patient with diabetes mellitus using morphological characteristics and phylogenetic analysis. To evaluate the antifungal susceptibility profile and treatment response of this new species.

Results

Two fungal isolates were identified as a novel species, Simplicillium sinense, which differs morphologically from other Simplicillium species in phialide and conidia size and grows slowly at 37°C. Phylogenetic analysis placed the isolates in a distinct terminal within Simplicillium. Antifungal susceptibility testing showed resistance to most azole antifungals but sensitivity to terbinafine and isavuconazole. After 2 weeks of oral terbinafine (250 mg daily) and 1 month of topical treatment, the rash resolved with no recurrence after 6 months.

Conclusion

Simplicillium sinense is introduced as a novel fungal species and the third Simplicillium species obtained from human tissue. This is the first reported case of tinea faciei caused by Simplicillium species. Terbinafine is recommended as the first-line antifungal treatment for Simplicillium infections, with diabetes mellitus identified as a potential risk factor.
  • Published in:Frontiers in Microbiology,
  • Study Type:Case Report, Taxonomic Study,
  • Source: PMID: 37250056, DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1156027
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