Sporotrichosis is typically transmitted through what route?

• A. Inhalation of spores
• B. Skin trauma from thorns or wood splinters
• C. Ingestion of contaminated water
• D. Tick bite

Answer: (B)

Sporotrichosis is acquired through traumatic implantation of the fungus into the skin from plant material. The fungus lives in soil and decaying vegetation, and a minor skin injury from a thorn or wood splinter introduces it beneath the surface. From there, lesions often track along lymphatic channels, producing the classic lymphocutaneous spread. This route contrasts with inhalation of spores, which leads to different pulmonary fungal diseases, and with ingestion or tick bites, which are not typical for sporotrichosis. So skin trauma from thorns or wood splinters best explains its transmission.