Sporotrichosis (Rose Gardener's Disease) - Symptoms, Causes & Treatment
Medically reviewed by Dr. Anand S. Urhekar, MD, MD Pathology, Clinical Advisor · Last updated July 2026
A subcutaneous fungal infection caused by Sporothrix species, entering the skin through a thorn prick, splinter or scratch — classically while gardening or handling sphagnum moss. A painless nodule develops at the entry site, then further nodules appear in a line along the lymphatic channel towards the nearest lymph nodes.
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Quick Answer
Sporotrichosis is a fungal infection acquired when Sporothrix in soil, moss or plant material enters through a thorn prick or scratch. Weeks later a firm painless nodule appears at the site, followed by a chain of nodules travelling up the limb. It does not respond to antibiotics — treatment is oral itraconazole for three to six months, guided by fungal culture.
Symptoms
- Firm painless nodule at the injury site, often weeks later
- Nodules appearing in a line up the arm or leg
- Ulceration with a crusted surface
- Little or no fever
- Slow progression over weeks
Causes & Risk Factors
- Sporothrix fungi in soil, sphagnum moss, hay and rose thorns
- Gardening, farming, forestry and floristry
- Cat scratches (an important route in parts of South America)
- Rarely inhaled, causing lung disease in immunosuppressed people
Treatment & Management
- Oral itraconazole for 3–6 months, continued a month past resolution
- Potassium iodide solution as an alternative in some settings
- Amphotericin B for disseminated infection
- Fungal culture of tissue for confirmation
- Gloves and protective clothing to prevent recurrence
When to See a Doctor
See a doctor about any skin nodule or ulcer that follows a plant injury and is not healing, especially if further lumps appear in a line up the limb. Mention gardening or animal contact — antibiotics alone will not work.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did antibiotics not work?
Sporotrichosis is a fungal infection, not bacterial. It needs a specific antifungal such as itraconazole, usually for several months. This is why cultures matter for non-healing nodular lesions.
Is it contagious?
Human-to-human spread is essentially unheard of. Cat-transmitted sporotrichosis is a recognised risk in some regions, so infected cats need veterinary treatment.
Related Conditions
Medical References
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Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. The content on this page should not be used to diagnose or treat any health problem. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for proper medical evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of your condition.