Opinion: Ten Years After WHO Recognition, Mycetoma Remains One of the World's Most Neglected Diseases

A decade after the World Health Organization recognized mycetoma as a neglected tropical disease, it continues to affect thousands globally with limited treatment access and research funding. This chronic infection, which primarily impacts impoverished populations in Africa and Asia, causes severe tissue destruction and disability without proper medical intervention. Despite WHO acknowledgment, mycetoma remains largely invisible in public health agendas and pharmaceutical development pipelines. Expert commentary emphasizes that the next ten years are critical—decisive action through increased investment, awareness, and treatment access could transform mycetoma from a story of medical neglect into one of collective global commitment and improved patient outcomes.