A black mould death: A case of fatal cerebral phaeohyphomycosis caused by Cladophialophora bantiana

Abstract

Cladophialophora bantiana is a neurotropic mould and primary cause of cerebral phaeohyphomycoses, which presents with brain abscesses in both immunocompromised and immunocompetent individuals. It is associated with high mortality due to delay in diagnosis and absence of standardised therapy. We present a case of fatal cerebral phaeohyphomycosis in a 67-year-old Caucasian man. Diagnosis was achieved by histopathological examination of brain tissue followed by conventional culture and molecular identification. We highlight diagnostic and treatment challenges involved. Keywords: Cerebral phaeohyphomycoses, Dematiaceous fungi, Gene sequencing, Cladophialophora bantiana