Sporotrichosis

Treatment:

The fungal infection is treated with potassium iodide (for example, SSKI) given by mouth 3 times per day. Treatment is prolonged and continues 1 month after the skin lesions clear.

Expectations (prognosis):

With treatment full recovery can be expected. Disseminated sporotrichosis is more difficult to treat and requires chemotherapeutic agents. Disseminated sporotrichosis can be life-threatening for immunocompromised people.

Complications:

In people with a normal immune system:

• secondary skin infections
• discomfort

In people who are immunosuppressed:

• disseminated disease
• lung and breathing problems (such as pneumonia)
• osteomyelitis
• arthritis
• meningitis

Calling your health care provider:

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you develop persistent skin lumps or skin ulcers. If you know that you have been exposed to vegetation, mention this to your health care provider.