Touch Biopsy: A Simple and Rapid Method for the Diagnosis of Systemic Mycoses with Skin Dissemination in HIV-Infected Patients

Abstract

Systemic fungal infection can disseminate to the skin and require prompt treatment, making early diagnosis very important. This study describes the use of a simple, quick touch biopsy method for the diagnosis of invasive mycoses in patients with AIDS with cutaneous manifestations. We identified fungal infections in 24 of the 29 investigated patients. Histoplasma capsulatum, Cryptococcus neoformans, Talaromyces artroroseus, Aspergillus flavus, Candida tropicalis, and Malassezia sp. were visualized directly in samples obtained from cutaneous lesions and confirmed by culture and molecular examination. The results suggested that touch biopsy is a simple, rapid method for the diagnosis of systemic mycoses with skin dissemination. It can be performed using simple tools and provides quick results, allowing for early intervention with appropriate antifungal therapy.

Keywords

• cutaneous dissemination
• rapid diagnosis
• systemic fungal infection