Ecthyma gangrenosum-like lesions: a sign of disseminated Fusarium infection in the neutropenic patient

Fusarium is a saprophytic fungus of soil causing disease in plants and animals. In the immunocompetent patient, Fusarium is non-invasive, colonizing wounds, ulcers or nails. In the immunocompromised host, however, especially in those whose neutrophil and macrophage function is deficient, it can cause devastating systemic infections. Skin lesions are an early feature of the disseminated disease. Rapid diagnosis and treatment are mandatory in order to give the patient a better chance of survival, reported mortality rates being as high as 90%.