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Rising Cladophialophora bantiana infections in the US

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2026-10-09 08:32 UTC → 2026-10-17 16:44 UTC · added ~~removed~~

Researchers from the University of Washington and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have identified a significant increase in cases of Cladophialophora bantiana, a highly virulent fungus that targets the central nervous system. Data analysis covering January 2009 to July 2026 revealed 48 confirmed infections and one probable case across 21 U.S. states and Washington, D.C. While annual detections averaged between one and five cases from 2009 to 2023, the incidence rose to eight cases in 2024 and 14 cases in ~~2025.~~ 2025, representing a nearly fourfold increase in recent years. The infection is characterized by a high mortality rate, estimated between 60% and 70% even with medical treatment. Unlike many invasive fungal infections that primarily affect the immunocompromised, approximately half of the Cladophialophora bantiana infections occur in individuals with healthy immune systems. The fungus typically causes brain abscesses and is believed to enter the body through inhalation or skin lesions. The exact epidemiology and environmental sources remain unclear. In response to the rising detection rates, the CDC has issued a warning and is calling for a ‘systematic, nationwide reporting and tracking system’ to better monitor the trend. Health officials noted that diagnosis remains difficult because ‘standard rapid tests can sometimes overlook this specific pathogen.’

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