SPOROTRICHOSIS

It is a chronic subcutaneous infection of lymphatic caused by a fungus called sporothrix schenckii. It is introduced into the skin by trauma. The lesions present as nodules or pustules which may break down into small ulcer. New nodules appear at interval of few days along the lymphatic.  Regional lymph nodes may get involved and may break down. The lesions are usually on the exposed part.

TYPES: Types of Sporotrichosis

• Cutaneous (skin) Sporotrichosis
• Pulmonary (lung) Sporotrichosis
• Disseminated Sporotrichosis

 SYMPTOMS:

The first symptom of cutaneous (skin) sporotrichosis is usually a small, painless bump that can develop any time from 1 to 12 weeks after exposure to the fungus. The bump can be red, pink, or purple, and usually appears on the finger, hand, or arm where the fungus has entered through a break in the skin. The bump will eventually grow larger and may look like an open sore or ulcer that is very slow to heal. Additional bumps or sores may appear later near the original one.

 Diagnosis is confirmed by culture of organism on common agar media.

HOMOEOPATHIC TREATMENT:

Homoeopathic treatment requires a deep constitutional analysis. The history of the disease, the family medical history, physical and mental characteristics of the patient, the likes and dislikes, medication details are all taken into consideration. This approach stands in consonance with the homoeopathic convention: Well selected Homoeopathic remedies are effective for Sporotrichosis treatment

Sepia: Sepia tops the list of homeopathic medicine when it comes to treating fungal infections. Circular, ring-shaped lesions on the skin in isolated spots is the key feature to use it. This can be attended with itching and burning when scratched, and increased sweating. Sporotrichosis , if appears in spring season specifically, then Sepia is the right choice of medicine.

Tellurium: Tellurium is also a major medicine for sporotrichosis infection. The lesions are elevated and spread across the whole body. Sometimes mild scaling covers these lesions. In few cases vesicles (tiny fluid- filled bumps) over the rings may appear, attended with a heated sensation on the skin.

Graphites: Graphites is highly effective for fungal infections that affect skin folds. It can be used when rash occurs in groins (crease formed at junction of abdomen and thigh), bends of limbs (like behind knees, elbow bend), neck fold, behind ears and between toes. The affected area is red, sore and painful. In some cases, a characteristic watery, sticky discharge may ooze out from the affected parts. It is also helpful when cracks develop in skin folds. There is intense itching in the affected area which gets aggravated at night.

Silicea: Silicea is the best prescription for cases of fungal infection of feet. In cases needing it, there is rawness and soreness in the affected part, along with cracked skin in between toes. Peeling of skin also occurs. There is itching and pain in the affected area. Excessive sweating having fetid odour is felt on the feet, with blisters in severe cases.

Thuja: Thuja is a natural medicine sourced from plant Arbor Vitae.  It is highly suitable for fungal infections that appear as ringworms in the beard, moustache and neck area. Persons needing it may have pimples (small red eruptions) or hard nodes in affected areas. Itching and burning may worsen upon cold washing.