HISTOPLASMOSIS

 Basic information

description

Histoplasmosis is a fungal infection that occurs throughout the world. In the United States, it normally affects people who live in the eastern and midwestern states. Almost all cases are mild and go undiagnosed. It usually involves the lungs, but can affect other body parts.

FREQUENT SIGNS & SYMPTOMS

• Usually no symptoms are present.
• Cold or flu-like symptoms (cough, fever, chills, chest or stomach pain, tiredness, and weight loss). In chronic cases (occurs in those with lung disease), there may be shortness of breath, sweating, and increased chest pain.
• In rare disseminated cases (infection has spread throughout the body), the symptoms will vary.

causes

Infection by the fungus, Histoplasma capsulatum. People become infected by breathing dust that contains fungus spores. The fungus is found in soil contaminated by feces of birds and bats that carry the fungus. This soil is most often found in pigeon lofts, barns, chicken houses, and in damp areas under bridges, along streams, and in caves.

risk increases with

• Geographic location. The disease is normally found in the western Appalachian slopes and the Mississippi, Missouri, and Ohio River valleys. Millions of people living in these areas have been infected, but never have symptoms or they are so mild that they go unnoticed.
• Working in construction-related activities that disturb contaminated soil (e.g., bulldozing or demolition).
• Spelunking (cave exploring).

PREVENTIVE MEASURES

No specific preventive measures. Wear protective masks for work in areas that might be contaminated.

expected outcomes

• Mild cases usually resolve on their own. Most people only feel tired or "bad" for several weeks.
• Severe cases are treatable with antifungal drugs.

possible complications

• People with weak immune systems or middle-aged smokers are more at risk for complications.
• Spread of infection to other organs. This is rare, but it can be fatal.
• Histoplasmosis often recurs in AIDS patients.
• Eye problems (they may take years to develop).

 diagnosis & treatment

general measures

• Your health care provider will do a physical exam and ask about your symptoms and activities. Medical tests may include sputum culture, blood studies, skin tests, and chest x-ray.
• Treatment is with supportive care and drugs (if needed). Hospital care may be required for patients with severe symptoms.

medications

• For mild cases, no medicine is usually necessary.
• For more-severe cases, antifungal drugs will be prescribed. Some may be given intravenously (IV).
• Anti-inflammatory drugs for inflammation may be prescribed.
• For AIDS patients, chronic therapy with antifungal drugs will be necessary.

activity

Activity levels will depend on the symptoms. The disorder is not contagious.

diet

No special diet.

 notify our office if

• You or a family member has histoplasmosis symptoms.
• The following occur during treatment:
  • Weight loss continues.
  • Fever rises to 101°F (38.3°C) orally.
  • Severe headache and stiff neck occur.

Special Notes: