We hope you like our faster and more stable platform. Please tell us if you experience any problems.
DermNet provides Google Translate, a free machine translation service. Note that this may not provide an exact translation in all languages
Home » Topics A–Z » Blastomycosis-like pyoderma pathology
Author: Assoc Prof Patrick Emanuel, Dermatopathologist, Auckland, New Zealand, 2013.
Blastomycosis-like pyoderma is a form of pyoderma which elicits an impressive verrucous epidermal reaction and draining sinus. Various bacteria have been implicated as possible causative organisms.
In blastomycosis-like pyoderma, sections usually show a broad verrucous lesion with epidermal papillomatosis which may resemble a keratoacanthoma (figure 1). There may be surface erosion and suppuration (figure 2). Numerous cystic spaces connect with the surface via draining sinuses (figure 3). There may be a pseudo-infiltrative growth pattern as the regenerative epithelium mimics an invasive squamous cell carcinoma (figure 4). Neutrophilic collections are present in the dermis and within squamous islands (figures 5, 6).
Gram stain and culture studies may reveal bacteria. Staphylococcus aureus is the most frequent causative agent.
Keratoacanthoma – The surface epithelial hyperplasia may be difficult to distinguish from a keratoacanthoma.
Blastomycosis – The reaction pattern is very similar. Special stains for fungal forms should be performed.
Atypical mycobacterial infection/sporotrichosis – These infections may also cause a massive epidermal response. Searching for the causative organisms and correlation with the cultures results can be helpful.
Actinic comedonal plaque – May represent a later stage of blastomycosis-like pyoderma. The inflammation is typically less striking and there is usually impressive solar elastosis.
See smartphone apps to check your skin.
[Sponsored content]
See the DermNet NZ bookstore.
© 2019 DermNet New Zealand Trust.
DermNet NZ does not provide an online consultation service. If you have any concerns with your skin or its treatment, see a dermatologist for advice.