Which organism is associated with a mucocutaneous infection that can disseminate?

• A. Aspergillus fumigatus
• B. Candida albicans
• C. Histoplasma capsulatum
• D. Penicillium marneffei

Answer: (D)

Penicillium marneffei is a dimorphic fungus classically linked to a mucocutaneous infection that can disseminate, especially in immunocompromised hosts such as people with HIV/AIDS in Southeast Asia. Clinically, it often presents with skin and mucosal lesions along with systemic symptoms, and the infection can spread through the bloodstream to involve multiple organs. Its biology—yeast-like forms inside macrophages at body temperature and mold forms in the environment, plus a distinctive red pigment produced in culture—helps distinguish it from other fungi. This combination of mucocutaneous disease with potential dissemination in the right host context makes it the best fit for the scenario.