Orlando Sporotrichosis Treatments

This patient information and photograph on Orlando Sporotrichosis Treatments is provided by John L. Meisenheimer, M.D. a board certified Dermatologist and skin care specialist based in Orlando, Florida. This information is not intended as a substitute for the medical advice or treatment of a dermatologist or other physician.

What is it?

Sporotrichosis is a skin infection usually of the hand or finger. A growth under the skin may appear at the site of infection or it may be an open sore. Nodules may grow advancing up the arm. There can be considerable swelling of the fingers, hand and arms.

What causes it?

Is caused by a fungus called Sporotrix schenckii that is commonly found in the soil. It usually enter the skin through a small cut on the hands or fingers. Gardeners, horticulturists, florists, landscapers are at risk for the condition. It is very common on rose thorns, wood splinters, sphagnum moss and dirt.

Is it dangerous?

For the typical healthy person Sporotrichosis is a relatively harmless disease, but it does require treatment. It is not related to cancer and it does not typically involve internal organs.

Can it be cured?

The treatment program I put you on will help clear the disorder, but it may take several months of treatment. 

Will it spread?

The fungus which causes Sporotrichosis tends to spread along the lymphatic system of the skin if it is not treated. If a person is immunosuppressed, in rare cases, there can be widespread involvement.

Is it contagious?

Although this is an infection, Sporotrichosis is not considered highly contagious.