Histoplasma capsulatum
- epidemiology
- classification and characteristics
- virulence factors
- transmission and infection
- clinical manifestations
- diagnosis
- treatment
Epidemiology
Found in the cnetral US, especially the Mississippi river valley; extends north to Ontario and Montreal
Classification and Characteristics
Dimorphic fungi - grows as a mold in the environment but as a yeast in the body
Virulence Factors
Transmission and Infection
Infection is via spore inhalation; only a small proportion of people develop disease, though antibodies develop in majority.
H. capsulatum infects phagocytes and can remain latent in macrophages for life.
Macrophages can become activated to promote fungal clearance.
Clinical Manifesations
Diagnosis
Treatment