[Conidiobolus coronatus infections revealed by a facial tumor]

Abstract

Introduction: Conidiobolomycoses (Conidiobolus coronatus fungal infections) are rare and potentially severe infections prevalent in the tropics. The disease starts in the facial sinus and evolves as a subcutaneous tumor on the mid face

Observation: A 19-year-old female patient from Burkina Faso presented with an acquired nasal deformation having evolved for a few months, associated to bilateral nasal obstruction. The patient had no medical or surgical history. The pathological analysis of the surgical exeresis allowed diagnosing a C. coronatus infection.

Discussion: The C. coronatus lives in decaying vegetation in hot and humid climates. It is a potential human pathogen that infects immunocompetent patients presenting with micro-wounds of the sinus and nasal mucosa. Hundred cases have been reported. The management is specific. The diagnosis should be discussed in case of distorting tumors of the midface.

Keywords: Acquired nose deformities; Conidiobolus; Déformation nasale acquise; Sinusites; Sinusitis.