A patient with acute myelogenous leukemia undergoing induction chemotherapy develops disseminated infection with Fusarium species. On Sabouraud dextrose agar, the fungus produces sickle-shaped multicelled macroconidia. Which statement about Fusarium is correct?
- A Blood cultures are frequently positive in disseminated fusariosis, unlike in invasive aspergillosis ✓
- B It is intrinsically susceptible to most azole antifungals including fluconazole
- C It is a dimorphic fungus existing as mold in tissue at 37°C
- D It causes tinea pedis and onychomycosis as its only clinical manifestations
Correct answer: A. Blood cultures are frequently positive in disseminated fusariosis, unlike in invasive aspergillosis
Explanation
Fusarium species can be isolated from blood cultures in disseminated fusariosis, a feature that distinguishes it from Aspergillus. Fusarium is a hyaline mold (not dimorphic), often resistant to many antifungals including fluconazole, and causes keratitis, onychomycosis, and disseminated disease in immunocompromised patients. Its canoe-shaped macroconidia are characteristic on culture.
Reference: Jawetz, Melnick, & Adelberg's Medical Microbiology, 28th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.