What is Histoplasmosis?

Histoplasmosis is a disease caused by exposure to the airborne spores of Histoplasma capsulatum fungus. Once inhaled into the lungs, lungs are usually the primary infection site.

Where does Histoplasma casulatum fungus come from?

Histoplasma casulatum fungus is a microscopic fungus, which is found throughout the world in soil where bird or bat droppings accumulate. It is released into the air when soil is disturbed by plowing fields, digging, etc.

Can anyone get Histoplasmosis?

Yes. As many as 80% of the people living in areas where H. capsulatum fungus is common (areas such as the Eastern and the Central United States), have positive histoplasmin skin test results. Histoplasmosis occurs in infants, young children, as well as older persons. Those suffering from chronic lung disease are at increased risk for this serious lung disease. Disseminated Histoplasmosis disease (where organs other than lungs are involved) predominently occurs in people with impaired/diminished immmune system secondary to cancer, AIDS, or other immune system disorders.

How is H. capsulatum transmitted?

Histoplasma capsulatum fungus grows in soil, and in any material contaminated with bat or bird droppings. Fungus spores can become airborne if contaminated soil/material is disturbed. If one breathes-in the spores, it causes infection. Histoplasmosis capsulatum disease is NOT transmitted from an infected person to another.

What are the symptoms of Histoplasmosis?

Most persons suffering from Histoplasmosis show no apparent symptoms. It does however eventually cause respiratory distress -including chest pain, nonproductive cough, and fever -symptoms that are quite similar to those observed in the cases involving tuberculosis.

How long does it take before the Histoplasmosis symptoms start?

On an average, the symtoms occur around 10th day following the infection.

How is Histoplasmosis treated?

Antifungal medications are the primary form of treatment for almost all cases of histoplasmosis, including the cases of chronic and disseminated histoplasmosis disease. Administration of antifungal drugs remains the primary cure for this lung disease.

What is Ocular Histoplasmosis Syndrome (OHS)?

It is believed that H. capsulatum spores spread from the lungs to the eye, lodging in the choroid -the blood vessels that bring blood and nutrients to the retina. Research showns that the OHS patients almost always test positive for previous exposure to histoplasmosis.

Don't forget to check out Lung Disease News section of this website for the latest Histoplasmosis Treatment News, and our Lung Disease Articles Library for the latest Histoplasmosis related articles.

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