A case of sporotrichosis treated with itraconazole

Lymphocutaneous sporotrichosis is caused by Sporothrix schenckii, a dimorphic fungus commonly existing on decaying plants and in the soil. The fungus has a worldwide distribution but is more prevalent in temperate and tropical climates. Infection may result from traumatic inoculation of contaminated material such as soil, hay, moss, plant debris, splinters, thorns and barbs. Inoculation is also possible through some animal scratches and bites. We describe a typical case of lymphocutaneous sporotrichosis, which was confirmed by clinical, histological and microbiological features. The patient was successfully treated with 400 mg daily systemic itraconazole for 4 months.