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Histoplasmosis

A fungal infection caused by Histoplasma capsulatum, transmitted through caves and bird droppings.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Internal Medicine department. Book Appointment →

What is Histoplasmosis?

Histoplasmosis is a systemic fungal infection caused by Histoplasma capsulatum, endemic in certain geographic regions worldwide. It is particularly common in the Ohio and Mississippi river valleys, parts of Central and South America, and certain regions of Africa.

The fungus is found in soil contaminated with bird and bat droppings; spores reach the lungs through inhalation. Most immunocompetent individuals remain asymptomatic or have a mild flu-like illness. In some cases, acute or chronic pneumonia, or rarely disseminated systemic histoplasmosis, develops.

In advanced HIV, organ transplantation, and other immunosuppressive states, disseminated infection can be fatal. Diagnosis is made through antigen testing of serum and urine, culture, and imaging. Treatment is with liposomal amphotericin B and itraconazole.

Symptoms

Fever, chills, and malaise
Dry cough and chest pain
Night sweats
Weight loss
Joint pain and erythema nodosum
Hepatosplenomegaly (in disseminated form)
Oral ulcers (in disseminated form)

Risk Factors

Living in or traveling to endemic areas
Cave exploration and speleology
Construction and demolition in old buildings
Exposure to chicken or bat roosts
Advanced HIV and immunosuppression
Use of biologic agents (TNF inhibitors)

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • When fever and cough develop after a cave visit in an endemic area
  • When chronic respiratory complaints persist
  • When unexplained fever occurs in a patient with advanced HIV
  • When persistent oral ulcers and weight loss develop
  • When erythema nodosum and joint pain appear

Treatment Methods

01
Observation or itraconazole in mild pulmonary cases
02
Liposomal amphotericin B in severe acute pulmonary and disseminated cases
03
Itraconazole as maintenance therapy
04
Long-term secondary prophylaxis in HIV patients
05
Corticosteroids (in selected severe cases)
06
Supportive care and review of immunosuppression

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Enfeksiyon Hastalıkları department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Enfeksiyon Hastalıkları Department

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.