Clinical Mycology Illustrated: A Colour Atlas
Fungal infections have emerged as a significant challenge in medical practice, with their increasing prevalence driven by factors such as the growing population of immunocompromised patients, expanding use of invasive medical procedures, and global climate changes. Despite these developments, clinical mycology remains an underserved area in medical education and practice. It is with this awareness and urgency that Clinical Mycology Illustrated: A Colour Atlas has been conceived and developed.
This atlas provides an exhaustive visual guide to fungal infections and their clinical presentations, spanning superficial, subcutaneous, and systemic mycoses. Its primary aim is to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical diagnosis by combining high-quality, full-color images with concise, clinically relevant text. Designed to meet the needs of medical students, clinicians, microbiologists, and laboratory professionals, this first edition serves as both a learning resource and a quick reference for the identification and management of fungal diseases.
The organization of this atlas reflects the natural progression of clinical decision-making. Initial chapters cover the fundamentals of fungal biology and laboratory diagnostic techniques, including microscopy, culture, and molecular methods. Subsequent sections delve into specific diseases, presenting detailed descriptions of their etiology, pathogenesis, clinical manifestations, and management strategies. Each entry is complemented by vivid, annotated images of fungal organisms, lesions, and laboratory findings, enabling readers to develop a nuanced understanding of their diagnostic characteristics.
Special emphasis has been placed on emerging pathogens and antifungal resistance, which pose a growing threat to global health. Additionally, a dedicated chapter on pediatric and immunocompromised populations underscores the unique challenges in diagnosing and treating fungal infections in these vulnerable groups.
This atlas would not have been possible without the contributions of numerous experts, clinicians, and microbiologists who shared their insights, experiences, and photographic documentation. Their dedication to advancing the field of clinical mycology is deeply appreciated.
It is our hope that Clinical Mycology Illustrated: A Colour Atlas will serve as a valuable tool in the fight against fungal diseases, empowering healthcare professionals to provide timely and effective care. As the field continues to evolve, we welcome feedback and suggestions from readers to improve future editions of this work.
Dr. Rajdeep Paul, M.Sc. (Medical), Ph.D. (Medical), PDF (Clinical Microbiology) MPH
Assistant Professor, Microbiology
Quality Head, Chirayu Health & Medicare Pvt. Ltd.
Deputy Infection Control Officer, Chirayu Medical College & Hospital, Bhopal
Dr. Rajdeep Paul is a highly accomplished specialist in Medical Microbiology with over six years of teaching and research experience. He holds an M.Sc. in Medical Microbiology, a Ph.D. in Medical Microbiology, and a Master of Public Health (MPH). In addition to his advanced academic qualifications, Dr. Paul has completed a Post-Doctoral Fellowship (PDF) in Clinical Microbiology, further enhancing his expertise in the clinical applications of microbiological science.
Currently, Dr. Paul serves as an Assistant Professor of Clinical Microbiology at Chirayu Medical College & Hospital, Bhopal, and is the Infection Control Officer and Quality Head at Chirayu Health & Medicare Pvt. Ltd. In these roles, he oversees infection control protocols and ensures adherence to the highest quality standards across healthcare services, contributing significantly to patient safety and care excellence.
Dr. Paul is a prolific researcher with over 50 publications in esteemed national and international journals. Additionally, he has authored five academic books on medical microbiology, cementing his reputation as a thought leader and educator in the field.
Through his contributions to research, education, and healthcare quality, Dr. Rajdeep Paul continues to make a profound impact on the advancement of medical microbiology and healthcare management.
Dr. Kuldeep Singh, M.Sc. Medical, Ph.D. Medical, PDF (Clinical Microbiology), MPH
Assistant Professor, Microbiology
Dr. Kuldeep Singh is a distinguished expert in the field of Medical Microbiology, with a career spanning over a decade in teaching, research, and clinical microbiology. He holds an M.Sc. in Medical Microbiology, a Ph.D. in Medical Microbiology, and a Master of Public Health (MPH). In addition to his advanced academic qualifications, Dr. Singh has completed a Post-Doctoral Fellowship (PDF) in Clinical Microbiology, further enhancing his expertise in the clinical applications of microbiological science.
Dr. Singh is currently serving as an Assistant Professor of Clinical Microbiology at Chirayu Medical College & Hospital in Bhopal. With over 10 years of teaching experience, he plays a pivotal role in educating the next generation of medical professionals. His teaching style emphasizes critical thinking, hands-on learning, and a deep understanding of microbiological principles as they apply to clinical practice.
Dr. Singh is also a prolific researcher, having published 35 research papers in national and international peer-reviewed journals. His research covers a broad spectrum of topics within medical microbiology, including infectious diseases, antimicrobial resistance, clinical microbiology techniques, and public health microbiology. His contributions to scientific literature have earned him recognition in the academic community.
In addition to his journal publications, Dr. Singh has authored five books on medical microbiology, providing valuable resources for students and professionals in the field. His books reflect his commitment to advancing knowledge and understanding of microbiology.
Before his current role, Dr. Singh worked as a Demonstrator at AIIMS Bhopal for two years, where he gained substantial experience in both teaching and research. This role provided him with the opportunity to collaborate with some of India’s leading medical professionals and contribute to the institution’s research efforts.
Dr. Singh’s career reflects a profound dedication to the advancement of medical microbiology. His expertise, combined with his teaching and research efforts, has made him a respected figure in the field. He continues to actively participate in academic conferences, workshops, and seminars, further contributing to the growth of medical microbiology as a discipline.
With a passion for education, research, and public health, Dr. Kuldeep Singh remains a leading authority in clinical microbiology, inspiring both students and colleagues alike.
Dr. Vaishali Gupta, M.B.B.S., M.D. (Microbiology)
Assistant Professor, Microbiology
Dr. Vaishali Gupta embarked on her medical career by earning her M.B.B.S. degree from Nepalgunj Medical College (NGMC), affiliated with Kathmandu University, in 2010. Driven by her passion for advanced specialization, she pursued and completed her M.D. in Microbiology from Shree Ram Murti Smarak Institute of Medical Sciences (SRMS), Bareilly, under Mahatma Jyotiba Phule Rohilkhand University, in 2016.
Her professional journey includes over six years of academic and research excellence. From 2017 to 2021, she served as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Microbiology at Hind Institute of Medical Sciences (HIMS), Sitapur, Uttar Pradesh. Building on her experience, Dr. Gupta joined LN Medical College & Research Centre, Bhopal, where she worked as an Associate Professor from 2021 to 2023, focusing on advanced research and teaching.
Currently, she is an Assistant Professor at the prestigious Gandhi Medical College and Hospital, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh.
Dr. Gupta has contributed significantly to the field of microbiology with 10 research publications, including three that have been internationally recognized. Her dedication to academics, research, and the advancement of microbiological sciences continues to make a meaningful impact in her field.
Dr. Nidhi Sharma, MBBS, M.D. (Microbiology)
Assistant Professor, Microbiology
Dr. Nidhi Sharma is an experienced microbiologist currently working as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Microbiology at Government Medical College, Datia (M.P.). She completed her M.B.B.S. from the prestigious AFMC, Pune, and earned her M.D. in Microbiology from MIMER Medical College, Talegaon.
With over 8 years of experience in various government institutions, Dr. Sharma has made significant contributions to academics and research. She has authored more than 25 national and international publications in peer-reviewed journals and has actively presented her work at national and international conferences.
Dr. Sharma’s dedication to teaching, research, and clinical microbiology underscores her expertise and commitment to advancing the field of medical microbiology
Dr. Mamta Meena, M.B.B.S., M.D. (Microbiology), PGDMCH
Assistant Professor, Microbiology
Dr. Mamta Meena is a dedicated medical professional currently serving as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Microbiology at Gandhi Medical College, Bhopal.
Her medical journey began with the completion of her M.B.B.S. degree from GMC Bhopal in 1993. Following this, she gained valuable clinical experience as a Junior Resident in the Department of Cardiology at Hamidia Hospital, GMC Bhopal. In 2004, she transitioned to academia, joining the Department of Physiology as a Demonstrator. A year later, she moved to the Department of Community Medicine, where she served for 13 years. During this period, she earned a Post Graduate Diploma in Maternal and Child Health (PGDMCH) and contributed extensively to public health initiatives, including school health programs and the training of Anganwadi workers.
Her deep engagement in community-based health training and her interest in understanding the sources of community-acquired infections inspired her to pursue a postgraduate degree in microbiology. From 2013 to 2016, Dr. Meena completed her M.D. in Microbiology at People's Medical College, Bhanpur, Bhopal.
Post-MD, she briefly worked as a Demonstrator in the Department of Microbiology in 2017 before being appointed as an Assistant Professor. Beyond her academic and clinical responsibilities, Dr. Meena has also participated in impactful training programs, such as those addressing violence against women in Mumbai.
Dr. Meena has authored eight publications in microbiology, reflecting her commitment to advancing research in the field. Her diverse experiences in clinical practice, community medicine, and microbiology make her a versatile and accomplished professional in medical education and public health.
Dr. Rajni Choudhary, MBBS, M.D. (Pathology)
Associate Professor
Ex-Registrar, Medical Council Madhya Pradesh
Vice President, Hemophilia Society – Bhopal Chapter
Dr. Rajni Choudhary is a highly respected Associate Professor in the Department of Pathology at Gandhi Medical College, Bhopal, with an impressive career spanning over 35 years. She has made significant contributions to medical education, research, and public health, establishing herself as a leader in her field.
Dr. Choudhary is a committed educator, serving as a Guide and Co-Guide to numerous postgraduate students and mentoring MBBS, postgraduate, nursing, and paramedical students. Her passion for teaching has greatly shaped the careers of many healthcare professionals.
In addition to her academic role, Dr. Choudhary served as the Ex-Registrar of the Medical Council of Madhya Pradesh, where she played a pivotal role in maintaining the highest standards of medical practice and education in the state.
Dr. Choudhary has a strong advocacy for hemophilia care and serves as the Vice President of the Hemophilia Society – Bhopal Chapter. She is also the Regional Women’s Representative for the Hemophilia Federation of India and the World Hemophilia Federation. Through her leadership, she has led various awareness programs aimed at improving the quality of life for individuals with hemophilia.
Her expertise and reputation extend beyond the classroom, as Dr. Choudhary is regularly invited as a chairperson, judge, and speaker at national and international academic conferences. She has served as an examiner and assessor for several universities, underscoring her credibility in the medical community.
Dr. Choudhary is an active researcher, having contributed 17 original publications in prestigious national and international journals. She has also played a significant role as Principal Investigator for two ICMR-funded projects and Co-Investigator in numerous other research initiatives.
Her dedication to the advancement of healthcare is evident in her role as Nodal Officer for Nucleic Acid Amplification Test (NAAT) under the National Health Mission and as a leader in the Blood Bank at Hamidia Hospital, Bhopal. She ensures the implementation of cutting-edge diagnostic technologies and strict safety protocols in the healthcare system.
Dr. Choudhary is a lifetime member of IPI-ID and IAPM, actively participating in professional development activities within the pathology community. Her tireless efforts in hemophilia care, medical education, and diagnostic standards have made a profound impact on the medical field, both in India and internationally.
Dr. Pratibha Singh, M.B.B.S., M.D. (Microbiology)
Laboratory Director
Assistant Professor, Chirayu Medical College & Hospital, Bhopal
Dr. Pratibha Singh is a skilled and dedicated microbiologist with a strong foundation in clinical practice, laboratory management, and academic research. She completed her M.B.B.S. from Chirayu Medical College & Hospital, Bhopal in 2016, and pursued an M.D. in Microbiology from Gajra Raja Medical College, Gwalior, Postgraduate in 2021.
Dr. Singh has enriched her expertise through senior residency positions at Ruxmaniben Deepchand Gardi Medical College, Ujjain, and Chirayu Medical College & Hospital, Bhopal. Her clinical acumen and leadership skills led to her appointment as the Assistant Lab Director at the Central Clinical Lab, Chirayu Medical College & Hospital in January 2024. She was subsequently promoted to Laboratory Director in April 2024, a role in which she oversees laboratory operations and ensures adherence to the highest standards of diagnostic excellence.
In addition to her administrative responsibilities, Dr. Singh continues to serve as an Assistant Professor at Chirayu Medical College & Hospital, where she plays an active role in teaching and mentoring students. Her academic contributions include the publication of three international research papers, reflecting her commitment to advancing knowledge in the field of microbiology.
Dr. Singh’s dedication to combining clinical expertise with academic research underscores her passion for improving patient care and advancing the discipline of microbiology.
Dr. Namrata Naithani, M.B.B.S., M.D. (Microbiology)
Assistant Professor, Microbiology
Dr Namrata Naithani, is a Clinical microbiologist currently working as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Microbiology at Chirayu Medical College and Hospital Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh. Dr Naithani has completed her under graduation MBBS (2006) from Subharti Medical College and Hospital, Meerut and post-graduation- MD (2014) from Ramaiah Medical College, Bangalore.
Dr Naithani is herself an avid reader and has noteworthy teaching methods in order to facilitate better learning of undergraduate and postgraduate students. She has also been a part of research projects and published papers to her name as well. In her current capacity, she handles the Microbiology and Infectious Disease Serology laboratory and works along with the HIC Committee of the hospital. In this era of Antimicrobial resistance, Dr Naithani, believes in providing patients & clinicians with the thorough and relevant medical information to make better decisions about their medical treatment options.
Dr. Satakshi Manwani, M.B.B.S., M.D. (Microbiology)
Assistant Professor, Microbiology
Infection Control Officer
Dr. Satakshi Manwani is currently serving as an Assistant Professor at Chirayu Medical College and Hospital, Bhopal. She began her medical journey at People's Medical College and Research Centre, Bhopal, where she completed her MBBS as part of the 2009 batch. Dr. Manwani further specialized in Microbiology, obtaining her MD from M.G.M Medical College, Indore, in 2022.
Her professional experience is diverse and extensive. She completed a year of Senior Residency at M.G.M Medical College, Indore, from 2022 to 2023. Following this, she took on the role of Assistant Professor of Microbiology at Chirayu Medical College and Hospital, where she has been contributing her knowledge and expertise for the past 14 months. In addition to her teaching responsibilities, Dr. Manwani also served as the Infection Control Officer at the same institution for 6 months, demonstrating her commitment to improving healthcare standards and infection control practices.
Dr. Manwani's dedication to her field is evident through her active involvement in both academic and practical aspects of microbiology. Her work continues to inspire and educate future healthcare professionals, making significant contributions to the medical community.
Dr. C. Munisankar Reddy, Ph.D. (Medical Microbiology)
Associate Professor, Microbiology
Dr. C. Munisankar Reddy is a distinguished expert in medical microbiology, with over 8 years of teaching and research experience. He currently serves as an Associate Professor of Clinical Microbiology at L.N. Medical College and J.K. Hospital, Bhopal.
Dr. Reddy holds a Ph.D. in Medical Microbiology and has made significant contributions to the fields of medicine, paramedicine, nursing, and dentistry. His academic endeavors include the authorship of more than five publications in esteemed international journals, showcasing his dedication to advancing the discipline through scholarly work.
In addition to his research, Dr. Reddy has actively conducted classes for medical, paramedical, nursing, and dental students, reflecting his commitment to education and knowledge dissemination. His extensive experience in both academia and research makes him a respected authority in the field of medical microbiology.
Dr. Reddy continues to drive progress in microbiology through his impactful teaching and academic contributions, inspiring the next generation of healthcare professionals.
Dr. Roli Nigam, M.B.B.S., M.D. (Microbiology)
Assistant Professor, Microbiology
Dr. Roli Nigam is an accomplished microbiologist currently serving as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Microbiology at Dr. B.S. Kushwah Institute of Medical Sciences, Kanpur. With four years of teaching experience, she has specialized in Protein Gel Electrophoresis for the screening of monoclonal gammopathies. She has also contributed as a speaker in a state conference in Madhya Pradesh, conducting workshops on this specialized technique.
Dr. Nigam began her medical journey in 2010, earning her M.B.B.S. degree from L.N. Medical College, Bhopal. She further pursued her M.D. in Microbiology at Gajra Raja Medical College, Gwalior, graduating in 2023 as the top performer of her batch.
Her expertise was further honed during a Senior Residency at Gajra Raja Medical College, where she developed advanced skills in Virology and Molecular Microbiology. She gained proficiency in modern diagnostic techniques, including CBNAAT, LPA, ELISA, and PCR-based assays. Dr. Nigam also built significant expertise in Anti-Nuclear Antibody Testing and Protein Gel Electrophoresis, along with outbreak management and sampling for diseases such as cholera, dengue, chikungunya, and measles.
Dr. Nigam’s keen interest in the Bacteriology section and her specialized focus on protein electrophoresis highlight her dedication to advancing diagnostic microbiology. Her contributions to teaching, research, and clinical microbiology continue to shape her career and benefit the medical community.
Dr. Yash Raj Gupta, MBBS
Junior Resident, General Medicine
Dr. Yash Raj Gupta is a dedicated and accomplished physician in the field of General Medicine, currently serving in the Department of General Medicine. He has a strong academic background and is recognized for his clinical expertise and contributions to the medical field.
Dr. Gupta completed his MBBS from RD Gardi Medical College and Hospital, Ujjain, from 2015 to 2020. His passion for medicine and commitment to enhancing his knowledge led him to pursue MD in Medicine from Chirayu Medical College & Hospital, Bhopal. During his academic journey, Dr. Gupta developed a deep understanding of medical science, which he applies in his clinical practice today.
In addition to his clinical work, Dr. Gupta is the Managing Director of Arrache Care Hospital in Bhopal, where he plays a pivotal role in overseeing operations and ensuring the delivery of affordable & high-quality healthcare services to all.
Dr. Gupta is also an active researcher with five publications in international medical journals, contributing to the advancement of medical knowledge. His research interests reflect his dedication to improving patient care and medical practices.
Notably, Dr. Gupta is the first winner of CIMCON for Best Paper Presentation in Central India, an achievement that highlights his excellence in academic research and his ability to communicate complex medical ideas effectively.
With his exceptional academic credentials, clinical experience, and leadership in healthcare management, Dr. Yash Raj Gupta continues to make significant contributions to the medical community, improving both patient care and medical education.