Touch Biopsy: A Simple and Rapid Method for the Diagnosis of Systemic Mycoses with Skin Dissemination in HIV-Infected Patients

Abstract

Systemic fungal infection can disseminate to the skin and require prompt treatment, making early diagnosis very important. This study describes the use of a simple, quick touch biopsy method for the diagnosis of invasive mycoses in patients with AIDS with cutaneous manifestations. We identified fungal infections in 24 of the 29 investigated patients. Histoplasma capsulatum, Cryptococcus neoformans, Talaromyces artroroseus, Aspergillus flavus, Candida tropicalis, and Malassezia sp. were visualized directly in samples obtained from cutaneous lesions and confirmed by culture and molecular examination. The results suggested that touch biopsy is a simple, rapid method for the diagnosis of systemic mycoses with skin dissemination. It can be performed using simple tools and provides quick results, allowing for early intervention with appropriate antifungal therapy.

Histoplasma antigen detection in unconfirmed pulmonary tuberculosis and cross‐reactivity with Aspergillus antigen in patients and in food in Jakarta, Indonesia

“…Another study by Wahyuningsih et al. confirmed disseminated histoplasmosis in HIV‐infected patients in Jakarta 48 . Extensive epidemiologic studies are required across Indonesia to calculate the real prevalence and to identify hotspot areas of histoplasmosis, especially CPH.…”

“…48 Extensive epidemiologic studies are required across Indonesia to calculate the real prevalence and to identify hotspot areas of histoplasmosis, especially CPH. Further study of histoplasmosis might target TB patient with and/or without bacteriological evidence, which were abundant in Indonesia.…”