Sporotrichosis
Treatment
The skin infection is usually treated with potassium iodide (for example, SSKI) given by mouth 3 times per day or itraconazole by mouth. Treatment is prolonged and continues 1 month after the skin lesions clear. Systemic or disseminated infection is often treated with Amphotericin B, or sometimes itraconazole.
Outlook (Prognosis)
With treatment, full recovery can be expected. Disseminated sporotrichosis is more difficult to treat and requires chemotherapeutic agents. Disseminated sporotrichosis can be life-threatening for immunocompromised people.
Possible Complications
In people with a normal immune system:
- Secondary skin infections
- Discomfort
- Disseminated disease
- Lung and breathing problems (such as pneumonia)
- Osteomyelitis
- Arthritis
- Meningitis
- Complications from medications -- amphotericin B can have extremely unpleasant side effects
When to Contact a Medical Professional
Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you develop persistent skin lumps or skin ulcers. If you know that you have been exposed to vegetation, mention this to your health care provider.
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