Chromomycosis, an endemic familial debilitating disease affecting goat breeders in the semi-arid rural areas of Falcón state.

Abstract

Chromomycosis, a chronic, debilitating, non-contagious deep mycosis, is acquired through inoculation of the fungus present in vegetation. This disease is found worldwide. Cases have been reported throughout Venezuela, and it is endemic in the states of Lara, Zulia, and Falcón. The objective of this study was to contribute to its control through the location, diagnosis, and treatment of affected individuals, in order to prevent progression to disability and the consequent decline in their quality of life. Field visits were conducted, and contacts were made with rural medical clinics and community councils in the semi-arid region. Diagnosis was achieved by visualizing the characteristic forms of the causative fungus in scales removed from the edges of the lesions; identification was made through microculture on slides; and observation of the morphology was also performed. The case series studied in the laboratory up to 2008 consisted of 500 cases, and we recently reported 35 new cases from January to July 2012 caused by Cladophialophora carrionii. It was confirmed that this is an occupational and familial disease that predominantly affects goat farmers. The disease affects the upper limbs of males. Support was obtained from the Ministry of Popular Power for Health regarding the supply of treatment, which is currently beyond the reach of patients due to its high cost. It is recommended to continue disseminating information about this public health problem in order to reduce the number of active cases, particularly in the poorest populations of the semi-arid region of Falcón State.