Histoplasmosis is an infection caused
by a fungus
The fungus grows in soil and material infected with bat
or bird droppings. The fungus has been found in poultry
houses, caves, bird roosts, attics, basements, and construction
sites. The fungus becomes airborne when contaminated soil
is disturbed. People get infected by breathing in the
fungus. It is not passed from one person to another.
Anyone can get histoplasmosis
Histoplasmosis is seen more in the eastern and central
parts of the United States. Both males and females of
any age can be infected, but the chronic (long-lasting)
lung form is seen more in older men. Outbreaks of histoplasmosis
have occurred in areas where the fungus is known to live,
from contact with bird, chicken, or bat droppings, or
recently-disturbed contaminated soil (such as a construction
site).
Histoplasmosis infection is common but histoplasmosis
disease is not
Many people become infected with this fungus and never
know it because they don't have symptoms. Symptoms, when
they occur, usually appear from 3 to 17 days after a person
has been in contact with the fungus. The disease (infection
with symptoms) can range from a mild respiratory or flu-like
illness, to a severe illness that spreads throughout the
body and can cause death if it is not treated. It may
also effect the eyes. Serious disease is more common in
infants, and young children or adults with weakened immune
systems (such as cancer or AIDS). The chronic form of
histoplasmosis can sometimes be confused with tuberculosis.
Symptoms if they occur may include:
- Feeling tired
- Cough
- Fever or chills
- Chest pains
- Headache
- Rash
- Muscle aches
Symptoms of more severe illness may include stomach
complaints, weight loss, weakness, swelling of the lymph
nodes ("glands"), liver, and spleen.
Tests are available to diagnose this disease
Histoplasmosis is diagnosed when it is seen in a specimen
(such as blood or phlegm) that is specially stained (or
dyed), by growing the fungus in the laboratory, or by
blood tests. Signs of an old infection can sometimes be
seen on a chest x-ray.
Histoplasmosis can be treated
Infection without symptoms is usually not noticed and
is not treated. The disease (infection with symptoms)
can be treated with "anti-fungal" medications.
If eye disease is suspected an eye exam is needed.
Histoplasmosis can be prevented
Limit exposure to soil and dust from areas that may be
contaminated (such as with bird and bat droppings). If
working in these areas is necessary, use protective masks
and spray the areas with water to reduce dust.
|
are PDF. Download