Prototheca species are aerobic, unicellular, ubiquitous, achlorophyllic algae that produce disease in humans and animals and can be isolated from slime flux of trees, drinking water, and soil. 2 species can cause infection to human: P. wickerhamii and P. zopfii in 3 clinical forms: cutaneous/subcutaneous infection, bursitis and systemic infection. The first case of human infection occurred in 1964. Over 100 cases of protothecosis were reported worldwide mostly in the United States but none so far has been reported in the Middle East. We are describing a 72-year lady who presented with a one-month history of a tender swelling below the left medial canthus for which dacryocystectomy was performed. Post-operatively, she developed wound gaping and infection. The diagnosis of this unusual infection was initially overlooked however careful histopathological examination of the tissue obtained by debridement proved Prototheca infection. We are reporting the first case of periocular Protothecosis in this part of the world. Our ophthalmologists and pathologists should be aware of this uncommon type of infection.

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