6 July 2025 – Mycetoma is a slow-moving but destructive infectious disease that begins in the subcutaneous tissues and can invade the skin, deep tissues, muscle and bone. Caused by more than 70 microorganisms of bacterial or fungal origin, mycetoma thrives in tropical and subtropical environments where thorn injuries are common.
Left untreated, the disease progresses from painless nodules to massive swellings. If not detected and managed early, mycetoma can cause gross deformity of the limbs, causing intense suffering, loss of function and impaired ability to work to earn a living. In advanced cases it can lead to amputation and death.
Little is known about the incidence and prevalence of mycetoma worldwide. As early signs often go unrecognized by patients and health workers, the disease frequently progresses to the point where amputation is needed, resulting in lifelong disability and imposing heavy medical, public health and socioeconomic burdens on patients, their communities and health care systems.
Simple measures can help prevent mycetoma. Closed footwear and protective clothing can protect against puncture wounds. People living in or travelling to endemic areas are advised not to walk barefoot.
Leveraging the expertise of the Mycetoma Research Centre (MRC) in Khartoum – designated a WHO Collaborating Centre in 2015 – the Government of Sudan and WHO led the first international training workshop on mycetoma in 2019 to strengthen national capacities on diagnosis, treatment and surveillance.
MRC: a global hub now at risk
MRC has spent decades advancing knowledge of the disease, pioneering diagnostics to enable early detection in remote settings and providing comprehensive care through its clinics and telehealth network. A leading partner in regional and global collaborations driving progress in the fight against mycetoma, MRC provided training for health professionals and scientists. Read more about the Centre’s work here.
The conflict in Sudan has had a devastating impact on the work of MRC – the world’s leading hub for the disease – and threatens to erase decades of research, training and care for thousands of patients. The setback extends far beyond Sudan, undermining global progress against mycetoma.
Join the webinar
Not familiar with mycetoma? Join us for our upcoming webinar, where leading experts will spotlight this neglected disease and explain why advancing research, raising awareness and strengthening prevention efforts are critical to ending the suffering mycetoma causes.
To learn more about mycetoma, check the links below: