Disseminated histoplasmosis caused by Histoplasma capsulatum var. duboisii in a non-HIV patient in Burkina Faso: Case report

Abstract

Histoplasmosis is a fungal infection due to Histoplasma capsulatum. The African form of this mycosis, caused by Histoplasma capsulatum var. duboisii, remains rare. We report a case of disseminated African histoplasmosis with skin, lymph nodes, bones and viscera localizations. The 22-year-old patient was HIV-seronegative and was considered immunocompetent. The presence of Histoplasma capsulatum var duboisii in ulcerations and a nodule pus aspiration was confirmed by direct microscopic examination and by culture. The medical treatment was based on fluconazole. Even though a regression of the symptoms was observed, the patient died. In disseminated African histoplasmosis, an early laboratory diagnosis must be carried out for accurate treatment.

Keywords: Burkina Faso; Diagnostic mycologique; Disseminated histoplasmosis; Fluconazole; HIV-seronegative patient; Histoplasma capsulatum var. duboisii; Histoplasmose disséminée; Mycological diagnosis; Patient immunocompétent.