Case Report: Destructive deep infection of the foot caused by Neoscytalidium dimidiatum leading to great toe amputation

TL;DR

A diabetic patient in China developed a severe foot infection from a fungus that usually infects plants, requiring toe amputation.

Contribution

This case report highlights the rare but severe pathogenic potential of Neoscytalidium dimidiatum in immunocompromised individuals.

Findings

Neoscytalidium dimidiatum caused rapid necrosis in a diabetic patient.

The infection required hallux amputation despite being a fungus typically affecting plants.

The case emphasizes the need for clinical awareness of this organism in vulnerable patients.

Abstract

We report an invasive deep-tissue infection caused by Neoscytalidium dimidiatum in a diabetic patient in China. Although typically a phytopathogen restricted to superficial human infections, it caused rapid necrosis necessitating hallux amputation. This case highlights the need for clinical awareness regarding the pathogenic potential of N. dimidiatum in immunocompromised hosts.

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