Living with Mycetoma
A long-lasting infection caused by fungi or bacteria that leads to swelling, hardening, and draining sores, often in the foot.
Understanding Mycetoma
Over time, the affected area swells a lot and hardens. The skin can break open, and tunnels (sinus tracts) drain pus and grains filled with the organisms. Some people have no discomfort, while others have itching or pain. It is rare in the United States but common in Africa, Mexico, and India, especially among farmers, shepherds, and people in rural areas. Wounds from thorns or splinters are a risk factor.
Signs & symptoms
Symptoms vary from person to person. GARD lists these among the most common:
- Firm lumps under the skin
- Swelling and stiff, hard skin
- Draining sores with pus and grains
- Changes in bone structure
- Foot shape changes
- Repeated skin infections
Not everyone has every symptom. GARD's list comes from the Human Phenotype Ontology.
Diagnosis
- 1Talk with your doctor
Share the symptoms you've noticed, when they started and your family health history. Notes and photos can help.
- 2See a specialist
Your doctor may refer you to a specialist who knows rare conditions.
- 3Ask which tests can help
Your care team will decide which exams and tests can confirm the diagnosis.
Care & treatment
- Care team
- A doctor familiar with rare conditions, plus specialists as needed
- Expert care
- Ask about multidisciplinary care centers for rare conditions
- Treatment
- GARD doesn't list specific treatments for this condition. Your care team will tailor care to your symptoms.
- Research
- Clinical trials and observational studies may be options. See the research section below.
General information, not medical advice. Your care team makes the decisions.
Everyday life
Living with a rare condition is easier with support.
- Connect with rare disease patient organizations for support
- Keep notes on symptoms, changes and questions for appointments
- Ask about patient registries that help research
- Look into financial aid and travel resources for care visits
Quick facts
Mycetoma is caused by fungi or actinomycetes. Frequent penetrating wounds from thorns or splinters are a risk factor.
Also known as: madura foot; mycetomata
Patient organizations
Rare-disease groups that can help
- Global GenesRare Diseases · United States
- National Organization for Rare DisordersRare Diseases · United States
- Genetic AllianceRare Diseases · United States
- RARE FoundationRare Diseases · United States
You are more than your diagnosis
Perspectives from people navigating life with Mycetoma.
Explore research for Mycetoma
Explore actively recruiting Mycetoma studies with HealthSpark.
Find actively recruiting studies for Mycetoma with HealthSpark. Share your city to explore research near you.
- Recruiting studies from ClinicalTrials.gov
- Share your city to look for research near you
- Eligibility is confirmed by the study team
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Powered by HealthSpark, our AI chat helper · Study information from ClinicalTrials.gov · Eligibility is confirmed by the study team.
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