Sporotrichosis Presenting as Facial Cellulitis

SPOROTRICHOSIS is an uncommon skin infection frequently involving the lymphatic system and is caused by the fungus Sporothrix schenckii. This organism is ubiquitous, being found in soil and on vegetation.¹ In the Midwest it is an occupational hazard for farmers and horticultural workers. The incidence of sporotrichosis in urban communities is much rarer, and consequently the diagnosis may be delayed.² For infection to occur, the organism had to be introduced into the dermis by traumatic implantation. The primary site is most often on an extremity. A rare primary pulmonary form has been reported occurring secondary to inhalation of spores.³ Subclinical infection may occur in endemic areas.

Report of a Case  A 23-year-old man in good health was initially seen with a small soft-tissue facial infection. On examination a 1-cm, firm, slightly tender lesion was observed. He was afebrile, and no other abnormality was detected. Screening tests for systemic