Scytalidium and scytalidiosis: what's new in 2012?

Fungi belonging to the genus Scytalidium are widespread around the world. Among them, two species are responsible for human superficial infections mimicking dermatophytosis: Neoscytalidium dimidiatum and Scytalidium hyalinum. Whereas these ascomycetous fungi are endemic in tropical or subtropical countries, both species have a different geographical distribution.

Reemergence of syphilis in Martinique, 2001-2008.

Syphilis reemerged in Martinique in 2004 and initially affected 3 HIV-infected patients. By March 2008, syphilis was diagnosed for 37 men and 18 women. As of October 31, 2009, this outbreak had not yet been brought under control.

[Lichenoid cutaneous reaction to imatinib].

Introduction: Imatinib (Glivec) is a new therapeutic molecule used for the treatment of chronic myeloid leukemia. Cutaneous side effects with this treatment are common but lichenoid drug eruption is exceptional. We report the first case with profuse cutaneous lichen.

Immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome associated with HIV and leprosy.

Background: Immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (IRIS) is an unusual inflammatory reaction to an opportunistic infection that occurs in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-positive patients with profound immunosuppression during the reconstitution of the immune system in the initial months of highly active antiretroviral treatment.

Observations: We describe 3 cases of leprosy occurring in patients treated with a combination of 3 antiretroviral drugs who fulfilled the criteria for IRIS. A reactional state occurred in all 3 cases.