Sporotrichosis in Argentina: clinical and epidemiological analysis

Introduction: Sporotrichosis is an implantation mycosis caused by Sporothrix spp. It is distributed worldwide in vegetation and soil. The most frequent route of infection is through trauma with elements contaminated with the fungus propagules. Since domestic cats are the most frequently affected animals and can transmit this infection to humans, is considered a zoonosis. Clinical forms include nodular lymphangitic, fixed cutaneous, pulmonary is rare, and disseminated is exceptional. Objectives: To analyze the epidemiology of sporotrichosis in Argentina during 2010 and 2022. To describe the clinical presentation, diagnostic methods, and treatment of cases diagnosed in this period. Know the circulating genotypes and observe the relationship with the geographical place of acquisition of the infection. Materials and methods: Analytical, retrospective, and observational study by analysis of the medical records of patients with sporotrichosis from 12 health institutions in Argentina between 2010 and 2022. Results: Fifty-four cases are presented. The most frequent clinical form was nodular lymphangitic and the treatment of choice was itraconazole. Conventional diagnosis was made in all cases. Culture of clinical materials was more sensitive than direct examination since it allowed the isolation of Sporothrix spp. in all 54 cases. Molecular identification was performed in 22 cases, with Sporothrix schenkii sensu stricto being the most frequently isolated species. Conclusions: This study allowed to know the epidemiology of this mycosis in Argentina, as well as the availability of diagnostic methods and the treatment of choice.