Conidiobolomycosis in relapsed acute lymphoblastic leukemia

Abstract

Invasive fungal infections in immunocompromised children suffering from hematological malignancies have been a major cause of morbidity and mortality. In recent years fungi other than aspergillus and candida are gaining importance. These emerging fungal infections have distinct epidemiological features and management issues especially in immunocompromised patients. Here we report the isolation of Conidiobolus coronatus, a rarely reported zygomycetes infection in a patient suffering from acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Conidiobolus generally causes indolent infection in the sino-respiratory tract. They are known to be angioinvasive and can disseminate. There is no consensus regarding appropriate antifungal treatment for Conidiobolus infection.