A case of Cladophialophora bantiana originating in the UK

Cladophialophora bantiana is a rare, neurotropic fungus found worldwide, including in the UK, that can cause brain infections, particularly in immunocompromised individuals. It belongs to the group of black fungi and is known to cause cerebral phaeohyphomycosis, a severe infection often affecting the central nervous system. This fungus is challenging to treat due to its resistance to many antifungal drugs, with management often requiring a combination of antifungal therapy and, in some cases, surgery.

This fungus is known to arrive in the UK via an individual who has travelled abroad, most commonly to tropical regions of the world, but this case affected an individual who had not travelled. Could its range be expanding as a result of global warming?