sporotrichosis /spôr′ōtrikō″sis/ [Gk, sporos + thrix, hair, osis, condition] , a common chronic fungal infection caused by the species Sporothrix schenckii. It is usually characterized by skin ulcers and subcutaneous nodules along lymphatic channels. It rarely spreads to involve bones, lungs, joints, or muscles. The most severe symptoms are observed in patients with AIDS. The fungus is found in soil and decaying vegetation and usually enters the skin by accidental injury. Outbreaks have occurred in workers at plant nurseries. Treatment may include amphotericin B in severe cases or itraconazole.
