chromoblastomycosis

chromoblastomycosis, chronic fungal infection of the skin and subcutaneous tissues that is characterized by the development of warty lesions, usually on the foot and leg. It occurs as a result of traumatic inoculation with any of several saprophytic fungi, primarily Phialophora verrucosa, Cladosporium carrionii, or Fonsecaea pedrosoi. The lesions develop over a period of years and usually remain localized; metastases (transfers from one site to another) are very rare. Treatment is by excision of the lesions, by iodide or X-ray therapy, or by local injection of the antibiotic amphotericin B. Extensive disease may require long-term therapy with an oral antifungal drug. Severe chromoblastomycosis frequently is refractory to treatment.