Wound: Alternaria species – Shipped November 23, 2020
HISTORY
This challenge was sent as a simulated wound on a patient with diabetic foot. Laboratories were expected to isolate and identify Alternaria species.
MAIN EDUCATIONAL POINTS from MY2011-3
- Since Alternaria species are ubiquitous in nature they are also common lab contaminants therefore their isolation in culture requires clinical correlation.
- Alternaria infection in humans often follows percutaneous injury during contact with plants and soil 1 and manifests as cutaneous or subcutaneous lesions.