It is a genus in the Mucorales.
The fungus shows broad, thin-walled hyaline hyphae with rare septae. It may show focal bulbous vesicles and nondichotomous branching (Cooter et al). It is identified in culture by the presence of a multi-spored pyriform sporangium.
Infections may include:
(1) necrotizing cellulitis following injury, especially on the extremities or face
(2) burn wound infection
(3) rhino-orbitocerebral infection
(4) necrotizing fasciitis
(5) osteomyelitis
(6) disseminated infection to the kidneys or other internal organs
The fungus tends to rapidly invade blood vessels making thrombosis and blood-borne spread serious issues. It also can show perineural spread.
Most patients have one or more risk factors:
(1) diabetes mellitus
(2) immunodeficiency
(3) trauma including intramuscular injection or burn, especially with soil contact
The number of infections caused by Apophysomyces may be underestimated because it has special requirements for growth:
(1) special nutrient deficient media (Czapek agar)
(2) high temperature (37 to 42°C)
(3) incubation for 7-10 days
