Histoplasmosis

Histoplasmosisis a fungal infection that often causes respiratory problems.

Causes

Histoplasmosis is caused by infection with a fungus. Humans become infected by exposure to bird and bat droppings.

Risk Factors

A risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease or condition.
  • Having a job that puts you in contact with bird or bat droppings (such as in an aviary)
  • Being involved in activities that put you in contact with bird or bat droppings (such as cave exploration)
  • Keeping birds as pets
  • Living along river valleys
  • Living in Mississippi, Ohio, Kentucky, Illinois, Indiana, Missouri, Ohio, or Tennessee
  • Living in eastern Canada, Mexico, Central or South America, southeast Asia, or Africa
  • Having recently traveled to a location where Histoplasmosis is common
  • Having a medical condition that weakens your immune system (especially HIV)

Symptoms

Symptoms may include:
  • Weakness
  • Headache
  • Achy muscles
  • Joint pain
  • Fever
  • Chest pain
  • Cough
  • Shortness of breath
  • Weight loss
  • Mouth sores
  • Enlarged liver and spleen
  • Skin rashes
  • Loss of vision

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical exam.
Tests may include:
  • Blood tests
  • Bone marrow tests
  • Skin testing
  • X-rays of chest and/or abdomen

Treatment

Antifungal Medications These may include amphotericin B or itraconazole. Patients with AIDS may require regular treatment with an antifungal medication for the rest of their lives.

Prevention

If you might be exposed to bird or bat droppings, wear a facemask. If you have a weakened immune system, completely avoid bird and bat droppings.