Histoplasmosis - disseminated

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Disseminated histoplasmosis

Fungus

Disseminated histoplasmosis is an infection caused by inhaling the spores of the fungus Histoplasma capsulatum. This spore is found in moist soil areas along river valleys, such as the Mississippi and Ohio River Valleys.

Systemic histoplasmosis

Histoplasmosis is caused by a fungus found in the central and eastern U.S. Mississippi and Ohio River Valley, eastern Canada, Mexico, Central America, South America, Africa, and Southeast Asia.

Most cases are mild or without symptoms. Acute pulmonary histoplasmosis may occur in epidemics. Progressive or spreading (disseminated) and chronic disease can also occur. In disseminated disease, the infection has spread to other organs from the lungs through the bloodstream.

The liver and spleen are usually enlarged, and all body organs may be involved. Ulcerations of the mouth or gastrointestinal tract may occur. Risk factors are travel to or residence within the central or eastern U.S., and exposure to the droppings of birds and bats.

Review Date: 11/11/2005
Reviewed By: Cyrus Badshah, M.D., Ph.D., Assistant Professor of Clinical Medicine, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University; Assistant Attending Physician, Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases & Medical Director, Chest (TB) Clinic and Directly Observed Therapy Program, Harlem Hospital Center. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.