Entomophthoromycosis is a group of rare subcutaneous and mucocutaneous fungal infections predominant in tropical and subtropical areas. Entomon in Greek means “insect,” reflecting the initial recognition of these fungi as parasites infecting insects. This gradually advancing infection commonly arises from the traumatic implantation of plant material or the inhalation of spores. The 2 distinct types of entomophthoromycosis include basidiobolomycosis and conidobolomycosis. Soil, insect, reptile, and amphibian excreta harbor Basidiobolus and Conidiobolus. Conidobolomycosis, most commonly caused by Conidiobolus coronatus, presents as a chronic rhinofacial subcutaneous infection that originates in the nasal sinuses and extends to the subcutaneous tissues of the face, resulting in disfigurement among immunocompetent hosts. Basidiobolomycosis is a chronic subcutaneous infection caused by Basidiobolus ranarum, which affects the limbs, trunk, buttocks, and gastrointestinal system. The symptoms of gastrointestinal basidiobolomycosis closely resemble those of more common illnesses, such as malignancy and inflammatory bowel disease, thereby challenging accurate diagnosis. Basidiobolomycosis affects both immunocompetent and immunocompromised patients.With early treatment, the prognosis is favorable. However, in untreated cases or patients with compromised immune systems or systemic illness, disfigurement and death may occur. Accurate diagnosis necessitates a high index of suspicion. Healthcare professionals should consider entomophthoromycosis in patients with classic symptoms, especially those who lived in or traveled to tropical or subtropical climates, due to its potential for disfigurement and mortality. This activity reviews the etiology, pathophysiology, evaluation, and management of entomophthoromycosis, providing healthcare professionals with the knowledge and tools necessary to improve patient outcomes for this rare condition.
- Provider:StatPearls, LLC
- Activity Link: https://www.statpearls.com/ArticleLibrary/viewarticle/131044
- Start Date: 2023-09-01 05:00:00
- End Date: 2023-09-01 05:00:00
- Credit Details: AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™️: 1.0 hours
Nursing: 1.0 hours
Pharmacy: 1.0 hours - MOC Credit Details: ABS - 1.0 Point; Credit Type(s): Accredited CME (ABS)
ABPATH - 1.0 Point; Credit Type(s): Lifelong Learning (ABPATH)
ABIM - 1.0 Point; Credit Type(s): Medical Knowledge (ABIM)
ABS - 1.0 Point; Credit Type(s): Self-Assessment (ABS)
ABP - 1.0 Point; Credit Type(s): Lifelong Learning and Self-Assessment (ABP) - Commercial Support: No
- Activity Type: Enduring Material
- CME Finder Type: Online Learning
- Fee to Participate: Variable
- Measured Outcome: Learner Knowledge, Learner/Team Competence
- Provider Ship: Directly Provided
- Registration: Open to all
- Specialty: All Practice Areas (e.g. ethics), General Surgery, Infectious Disease, Pediatric Infectious Diseases