Histoplasmosis

Histoplasmosis is an infectious disease (acute or chronic) caused by various types of the Histoplasma fungus belonging to the genus Bacillus. This disease can be called the “human type of actinomycosis”, since often the organs affected are similar to those in human actinomycosis. The fungus Histoplasma exists in soil and spores in it, in secretions from the organs of infected rodents and carriers. The source of infection for people can be rodents of various species or soil contaminated with the excrement of rodents or birds infected with histoplasmosis. By its general nature, histoplasmosis can

Histoplasmosis is an infection caused by the fungus Histoplasma. Infection can occur through contact with soil, dust or droppings containing spores of this fungus. The infection often occurs in areas with tropical, humid climates.

Symptoms of the disease may vary depending on the severity of the infection. In mild cases, histoplasma may be asymptomatic or cause symptoms similar to the common cold. As the condition worsens, a person may begin to experience signs of TB, including a cough, chest pain, and weakness. Fever and pneumonia (pneumonia) may occur. Hepatitis and nephritis (inflammation of the liver and kidneys) may also develop. In rare cases, the disease can be fatal.

The main method for diagnosing histoplasmosis is a blood test for histoplasma antigens, which can be present in the blood as early as two weeks after infection. However, it is not always accurate. X-ray of the lungs and bronchography using a special tube give more accurate results. The prognosis of the disease depends on the stage and severity of the disease. If the disease is diagnosed at an early stage, it can be treated with antibiotics. In all other cases, the prognosis is often unfavorable.

To treat the progressive form of the disease, intravenous amphoterin-B is used, which is used against a wide range of fungi, including histoplasma. Treatment is carried out only in medical institutions.