Histoplasmosis digital illustration

Histoplasmosis Save

ICD-10 code: B39

Chapter: Certain infectious and parasitic diseases

Understanding Histoplasmosis: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment
Histoplasmosis is a respiratory disease caused by a fungus called Histoplasma capsulatum. This fungus is commonly found in soil and bird droppings, especially in areas with high humidity and bird populations. Histoplasmosis can affect anyone, but it is more common in people with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS, cancer, or organ transplant recipients.

Symptoms of histoplasmosis can vary depending on the severity of the infection. Some people may not experience any symptoms at all, while others may have flu-like symptoms, including:

  1. Fever
  2. Cough
  3. Chest pain
  4. Shortness of breath
  5. Fatigue
  6. Body aches

In severe cases, histoplasmosis can cause chronic lung infections, which can lead to scarring of the lungs and permanent damage. In rare cases, the infection can spread to other parts of the body, such as the brain, heart, or adrenal glands.

The most common way to contract histoplasmosis is by inhaling airborne spores from the fungus. This can happen when soil or bird droppings are disturbed, such as during construction or renovation projects. It can also happen when people come into contact with contaminated soil while gardening or farming. In rare cases, histoplasmosis can be spread through blood transfusions or organ transplants.

If you suspect that you may have histoplasmosis, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. A healthcare provider can perform tests to diagnose the infection, which may include blood tests, chest x-rays, or a biopsy of affected tissue.

Treatment for histoplasmosis typically involves antifungal medications, which can be taken orally or through an IV. In severe cases, hospitalization may be necessary. People with weakened immune systems may need to take antifungal medication for an extended period of time to prevent the infection from recurring.

Preventing Histoplasmosis

There are several steps that people can take to reduce their risk of contracting histoplasmosis:

  1. Avoiding areas with high concentrations of bird droppings, such as chicken coops or caves where bats roost.
  2. Wearing protective clothing, such as gloves and masks, when working with soil or bird droppings.
  3. Covering soil with plastic sheeting before digging or excavating.
  4. Using HEPA air filters to reduce the amount of airborne spores in indoor