Granuloma from aquarium hobby

Passionate about ornamental fish, the 60-year-old man in Hanoi spends hours every day taking care of his fish tank. He does everything from changing the water to cleaning the tank himself, but without wearing protective gloves. A year ago, the second finger of his right hand became red and swollen. He went to many places for check-ups, but the condition did not improve.

Recently, he went to see a dermatologist. After a thorough examination and medical history, and culture tests, he was diagnosed with Mycobacterium granuloma – a rare disease commonly found in aquarium fish keepers.

According to Master, Doctor Nguyen Tien Thanh - member of the Vietnam Dermatology Association, granulomatosis caused by Mycobacterium marinum infection is a rare disease caused by bacteria in dirty water or infected fish tanks. This bacteria penetrates through small scratches on the skin, causing granulomatous lesions.

“Swimming pool granuloma usually starts with a small papule or lump or red-brown plaque 1-4cm, which may have a rash, hyperkeratosis and raised surface, usually without ulceration or necrosis. Some have crusts on the granuloma base, which may secrete pus. Some cases have small satellite papules, which may create tunnels under the granuloma on the hands, elbows, knees, and legs. Patients are often easily confused with benign lesions such as skin fungus, contact dermatitis, and warts,” said Dr. Thanh.

The man's second finger on his right hand was red and swollen due to Mycobacterium infection. (Photo: BSCC)

If not treated properly, Mycobacterium granulomas can persist for years, causing discomfort and affecting daily activities.

According to experts, groups at high risk of Mycobacterium granuloma infection are aquarium hobbyists, people who regularly clean aquariums with bare hands, employees working in aquarium shops or aquatic environments, and fishermen.

To protect yourself from the risk of contracting swimming pool granulomatosis, people need to use protective gloves when cleaning fish tanks or handling dirty water, maintain regular fish tank hygiene, change water regularly and clean tank equipment.

You should also not touch dirty water with bare hands, especially when your skin has scratches or open wounds, and you should wear protective gear.

If you discover any unusual, persistent skin lesions such as painless, red, itchy, oozing lumps that do not heal, you should go to a dermatology clinic for timely examination and treatment.

Nhu Loan

Source: https://vtcnews.vn/mac-u-hat-tu-thu-choi-ca-canh-ar910502.html