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Deadly Brain Fungus Surges in U.S.
17 Oct
Summary
- A rare brain infection is rising in the U.S.
- Half of cases occur in healthy individuals.
- The infection has a high fatality rate, even with treatment.
A rare fungal infection affecting the brain is on the rise in the United States, prompting calls for increased awareness and national tracking. Cladophialophora bantiana (C. bantiana), a black mold, has shown a near quadrupling in detections between 2023 and 2025, according to recent data. This pathogen has historically been uncommon, but annual cases surged from single digits to 14 in 2025.
Unlike many fungal infections that target those with compromised immune systems, approximately half of C. bantiana infections occur in otherwise healthy individuals. Researchers suspect the mold enters the body through inhalation or skin wounds, traveling to the brain via the bloodstream. This severe infection carries a significant fatality rate of 60% to 70%.
Cases have been reported across 21 states and the District of Columbia, with the median patient age being 68. Despite diagnostic challenges, public health experts advise clinicians to consider C. bantiana in patients exhibiting signs of a brain abscess. Treatment typically involves surgical removal of infected tissue and multiple antifungal medications.
