Histopathology

BLACK FUNGUS WHITE FUNGUS AND YELLOW FUNGUS.
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COVID -19 second wave and journalism in India have introduced us to Black, white and yellow fungus. What are these originally? Let’s decode some terminilogy.

1. BLACK FUNGUS

What is being referred to as black fungus?

Mucor is being referred to as the black fungus.

Is the fungus itself black in colour?

No, in a setting of immunosuppression, mucor grows rapidly causing angioinvasion and tissue necrosis. This results in a blackish appearance of the affected area, giving rise to the name.

What is the real black fungus?

BLACK FUNGUS WHITE FUNGUS AND YELLOW FUNGUS.
Dermataceous fungi
Some fungii have excess melanin, also called melanized or dermaticious fungi. They are the real black fungi. Moreover, presence of melanin is not uncommon in Histoplasma spp, Aspergillus spp (especially Aspergillus niger) and even candida spp.

2. WHITE FUNGUS

What is being referred to as white fungus?

BLACK FUNGUS WHITE FUNGUS AND YELLOW FUNGUS.
White patches in candida
Candida albicans. This fungus has the tendency to produce patchy white coloured lesions, hence the name.

3. YELLOW FUNGUS

What is being referred to as yellow fungus?

Mucor septicus. This fungus has not been associated with any human infections till now. It’s identification is still a mystery.

What is the real yellow fungus?

BLACK FUNGUS WHITE FUNGUS AND YELLOW FUNGUS.
Aspergillus in culture central blackish pigment and peripheral yellow to white
Aspergillus– When cultured, aspergillus has a blackish center due to the melanin, and whitish or yellowish body.

Actinomycetes has a unique feature, pus in this infection has a yellow color due to the presence of sulfur granules.

On a lighter note! Since we have started color coding fungi why not go ahead and name a few more!

PINK FUNGUS- Tinea versicolor– causes pink coloured patches

GREEN FUNGUS- Pseudomonas aeruginosa (not a FUNGUS!!!- well who cares!!)

BLACK FUNGUS WHITE FUNGUS AND YELLOW FUNGUS.