2023-09-29 15:02:09
In botany, plants can be attacked by dangerous fungi that can be responsible for their rapid death. In principle, there are also well-known ones fungal infections in humans. However, it has not yet been possible for a disease that usually occurs in plants to be diagnosed in a person – and this is extremely worrying.
Fungal infections: Purple cartilage layer fungus detected in humans
As stated in a new study is called, the purple cartilage layer fungus was found in a human for the first time some time ago. This actually attacks hardwood and, more rarely, coniferous wood and is widespread worldwide – in Germany it is often found in deciduous forests. But a 61-year-old mushroom researcher in India is now a unique exception.
This means that the fungus appears to have succeeded in crossing species boundaries. The man presented to a clinic with a hoarse voice and a cough, suffered from severe fatigue and had difficulty swallowing. An examination then revealed an abscess next to his trachea.
At first no suspicious bacteria could be discovered. With the help of a special technique, long, root-like hyphae were found – these are thread-like vegetation organs of fungi. A DNA sample makes clear identification possible.
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Unanswered questions worry experts
How the man was able to contract this fungal infection is still a mystery. Although he works with them himself, he couldn’t remember having encountered the purple cartilage layer fungus in the recent past. Nevertheless, he came into contact with other types of fungi and decaying material.
But according to the study, the man had an intact immune system, which makes the infestation particularly confusing and, above all, worrying – usually a pathogen would have to find perfect conditions to suddenly survive and thrive in a foreign and, above all, hostile environment.
However, regular drying out of the ulcer and a two-month treatment with an antifungal agent helped the man. Two years later he was still doing well and there were no signs of re-infestation. But the fact that this particular fungal infection could occur at all makes researchers particularly aware and shows that there are also dangers in the plant world that are usually overlooked.
Quelle: „Paratracheal abscess by plant fungus Chondrostereum purpureum- first case report of human infection“ (Medical Mycology Case Reports 2023)
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