Changing Concepts and Current Definition of Majocchi's Granuloma

Abstract

Dermatophytic granuloma characterized by perifollicular granulomatous inflammation was first described by Domenico Majocchi and was later named after him, Majocchi's granuloma (MG). Although the initial description was related to a dermatophyte Trichophyton tonsurans, later reports linked MG to non-dermatophytes (Phoma, Aspergillus, Malbranchea), which led to a confusion of disease patterns caused by cutaneous pathogens and general opportunistic microorganisms. Furthermore, several causative agents of MG described in the literature were not confirmed as such. Our review addressed the following aspects: (1) significance of histopathological finding for MG diagnosis, (2) dermatophytes as exclusive agents of MG, (3) spectrum of etiological agents causing different types of invasive dermatophytic infections, and (4) treatment options.