Illustration of Paracoccidioides lutzii, a dimorphic fungus, one of the causative agents of paracoccidioidomycosis, together with Paracoccidioides brasiliensis. P. lutzii is found only in Brazil and Ecuador, in contrast to P. braziliensis that is found throughout Central and South America. Paracoccidioidomycosis belongs to neglected endemic mycosis, it is acquired by inhalation of the fungus from the soil. The fungus can infect the skin and mucous membranes, causing lesions and ulcers, or the internal organs, causing fever, weight loss, loss of breath, coughing and chest pain. P. lutzii shows decreased virulence compared to P. braziliensis.
