Utility of anti-bacillus Calmette-Guerin antibodies as a screen for organisms in sporotrichoid infections

Background: Sporotrichoid infections often present a diagnostic challenge f or the dermatopathologist. Therefore an affordable, reliable method of easi er recognition of organisms is desired. Recently, immunohistochemical stain ing with antibodies against Mycobacterium bovis (bacillus Calmette-Guerin, BCG) was found to be useful ill identifying various fungi and mycobacteria with minimal background staining. Objective: The purpose of this study was to demonstrate the usefulness of a nti-BCG antibodies as a screen For organisms in sporotrichoid infections. Methods: Thirteen specimens of suspected sporotrichosis were selected for s taining with anti-BCG antibody. Sporotrichoid infection was confirmed by hi stochemical staining, biopsy, and follow-up results. Results: Twelve of the 13 specimens stained positively using anti-BCG antib ody. Of the 5 cultures done, 2 were positive for M marinum, and 1 grew Spor othrix schenckii. Conclusion: Immunohistochemical staining with anti-BCG antibody offers anot her screening method to identify organisms in sporotrichoid infections beca use of its ease, cost-effectiveness, and simplicity.