Localized calcium oxalate crystals in primary cutaneous aspergillosis

Abstract

Select Aspergillus species can produce oxalate as a fermentation byproduct, which may react with calcium ions to produce insoluble calcium oxalate crystals in tissues. These crystals are frequently associated with pulmonary Aspergillus infections, yet are rarely described in primary cutaneous aspergillosis. Herein, we report the presence of calcium oxalate crystals detected on cutaneous specimens from primary cutaneous Aspergillus niger and Aspergillus fumigatus infections in an immunocompromised, premature infant. No metabolic sources of oxalosis were found.

Keywords: Aspergillus; calcium oxalate crystals; oxalosis; primary cutaneous aspergillosis.