Unveiling the Uncommon: Gastrointestinal Basidiobolomycosis of the Colon and its Distinctive Splendore-Hoeppli Phenomenon.

This article focuses on Basidiobolomycosis, a rare fungal infection caused by Basidiobolus ranarum, highlighting its clinical and histopathological features through a case study of a 53-year-old man from Saudi Arabia initially suspected of complicated diverticulitis. The infection primarily affects the skin and gastrointestinal tract, presenting with nonspecific symptoms and often mimicking neoplastic or inflammatory conditions, which complicates diagnosis. Histological examination reveals broad, thin-walled septate fungal hyphae surrounded by eosinophilic material known as the Splendore-Hoeppli phenomenon, with special stains such as periodic acid-Schiff (PAS) and Gomori methenamine silver (GMS) aiding identification. Accurate diagnosis relies on microscopic evaluation and culture, while treatment involves surgical excision combined with prolonged antifungal therapy. The report underscores the importance of awareness and timely recognition of Basidiobolomycosis to improve patient outcomes.