The Conidiobolus sp. of fungus is
isolated from insects, amphibians, soil as well as decaying
plant matter. It is usually found in tropical areas,
such as the rainforests of central America; it was also
discovered to be present in India and equatorial Africa.
Several species fall under the genus Conidiobolus, and
the most common ones include Conidiobolus coronatus,
Conidiobolus incongruus and Conidiobolus lamprauges.
The Conidiobolus sp. has been identified as a cause
of infection for animals (deer, dogs, horses and sheep)
and humans alike. The most common infection linked
to Conidiobolus sp. in humans is that which affects
the nasal mucosa and maxillofacial tissues. Entomophthoromycosis
conidiobolae is the chronic inflammatory disease that
is caused by Conidiobolus sp. Resulting in the formation
of subcutaneous nodules or polyps, this infection
can be acquired either by an insect bite or through
inhalation. Healthy persons working outdoors in tropical
environments are most at risk.
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