Which is false about penicillium marefi -
a) Black colonies
b) Dimorphic fungi
c) Amphotericin B used for treatment
d) Causes fulminant infections in immunocompromised patients
Correct Answer - A
Ans. is ‘a’ i.e., Black colonies
Penicillium marneffei
Penicillium morneffei cause serious disseminated disease with
characteristic papular skin lesion in AIDS Patients in South-East
Asia.
The fungus is dimorphic, forming yeast-like cells that are often
intracellular, resembling histoplasmosis, in infected tissues.
The yeast phase (37°C) displays colonies that are white to tan, soft
and dry.
The most distinguishing characteristic of mould phase (at 25° C) is
the early presence of red pigment that diffuses into agar. The
colonies start as pinkish-yellow and evolve into a bluish-green color
in the center with a white periphery.
It is associated with bamboo rat (Rhizomys sinensis) and has been
isolated from their burrows and internal organs.
Treatment is amphotericin B, followed by intracoazole to prevent
relapse.