Pseudofungi

Abstract

Pseudofungi are septate hyphae–like structures very similar morphologically to true fungal elements. Histologically their presence poses a diagnostic challenge as they mimic fungal infection. Accurate identification of pseudofungi is required to avoid unnecessary treatment, and this can be accomplished by careful morphologic analysis with the use of appropriate histochemical stains. We report a patient with pseudofungi within a paratracheal lymph node, describe the morphologic findings, and discuss the differential diagnosis.