molecular identification – Page 2

Severe tinea faciei mimicking favus-like lesions linked to rabbit exposure: A case report

mycolabadmin

A young girl developed facial rashes after getting a pet rabbit and was initially treated for eczema, but her condition worsened. Tests revealed she and her rabbit both had a fungal infection caused by Trichophyton mentagrophytes. The infection was successfully treated with oral antifungal medication. This case highlights how pet contact can transmit fungal infections to children and the importance of proper diagnosis before starting treatment.

Soil ascomycetes from Spain. XIV. The Chaetomiaceae of La Palma (Canary Islands)

mycolabadmin

Researchers collected soil samples from volcanic areas in La Palma, Canary Islands, and discovered a rich diversity of fungi belonging to the Chaetomiaceae family. They identified several previously unknown fungal species and three entirely new fungal genera, expanding our understanding of fungal life in volcanic environments. This discovery highlights that volcanic soils harbor unique microbial communities adapted to extreme conditions, with potential implications for understanding fungal ecology and evolution.

Molecular identification of yeast communities isolated from nail specimens by PCR-RFLP and PCR-FSP methods

mycolabadmin

This study developed and compared two molecular methods to accurately identify different yeast species that cause nail infections. Researchers tested 269 patient samples and found that both PCR-RFLP and PCR-FSP methods were effective, with PCR-FSP being better at identifying rare yeast species. These methods help doctors identify the exact type of yeast causing infection, which is important for selecting the right antifungal medication for treatment.

A rare case of white piedra caused by Candida orthopsilosis

mycolabadmin

A young girl developed small knots on her scalp hair caused by a yeast fungus called Candida orthopsilosis. This is extremely rare, as white piedra is typically caused by different fungi. Doctors identified the fungus using DNA testing and treated it successfully with antifungal creams and shampoo. This case shows that doctors should not dismiss Candida growth as contamination when found on hair.

Wildlife Dermatophytoses in Central Italy (Umbria and Marche Regions): A Fifteen-Year Investigation (2010–2024)

mycolabadmin

Researchers studied fungal skin infections in wild animals across two Italian regions over 15 years, finding that about 11% carried dermatophyte fungi. Grey squirrels were most commonly infected, and some of these fungi can spread to humans through contact. The study highlights how wild animals act as sentinels for emerging diseases and emphasizes the importance of protective equipment when handling wildlife.

Candida auris: Outbreak, surveillance and epidemiological monitoring in Northern Greece

mycolabadmin

A dangerous fungus called Candida auris caused an outbreak in hospitals in Northern Greece starting in October 2022. This fungus is particularly concerning because it is resistant to many commonly used antifungal drugs, especially fluconazole. Researchers monitored and tracked the outbreak across multiple hospitals, finding that all cases belonged to the same genetic type (Clade I) and were treatable with certain alternative antifungal medications. The study emphasizes the importance of careful laboratory surveillance and coordinated infection control measures to prevent further spread of this serious infection.

Two Cases of Curvularia geniculata Keratitis Successfully Treated with Natamycin-Based Therapy

mycolabadmin

This report describes two patients who developed rare fungal eye infections caused by Curvularia geniculata after eye injuries. Both patients were successfully treated with antifungal eye drops, particularly natamycin. Molecular testing confirmed the specific fungus causing the infection. Both patients recovered well with excellent vision restoration, demonstrating that proper diagnosis and targeted antifungal treatment can effectively manage this rare condition.

Overexpression of efflux pump and biofilm associated genes in itraconazole resistant Candida albicans isolates causing onychomycosis

mycolabadmin

Nail fungal infections caused by Candida albicans can be difficult to treat when the fungus becomes resistant to common antifungal medications like itraconazole. Researchers found that resistant strains have overactive genes that pump the drug out of fungal cells and genes that help the fungus form protective biofilm structures. Understanding these resistance mechanisms could lead to better combination treatments that block these protective strategies.

Sarocladium implicatum: an unusual agent of opportunistic infection in a COVID-19 patient

mycolabadmin

A patient hospitalized with severe COVID-19 developed an unusual infection caused by a mold called Sarocladium implicatum, which typically affects plants. Due to weakened immune system from his illness and medications, the fungus spread to his bloodstream and lungs, causing persistent fever and a cavity in his lung. After molecular testing identified the fungus, he was treated with an antifungal medication called voriconazole, which successfully cured the infection.

Identification, biological characteristics, and screening of control agents against root rot of Ardisia crenata Sims in China

mycolabadmin

Researchers identified a fungus called Fusarium cugenangense as the cause of root rot disease in Ardisia crenata, a valuable traditional Chinese medicinal plant. The disease was affecting 25-35% of plants in Chongqing farms and damaging their roots. Scientists tested various pesticides and found that fluazinam chemical spray and zhongshengmycin biological spray were the most effective at stopping the fungus, providing farmers with effective treatment options.

Research Keyword: molecular identification