1.2 Fungal Respiratory Infections Flashcards
Give an example of an organism that predominantly infects the nasopharynx vs one that infects mostly the trachea + bronchioles.
Nasopharynx > Rhinovirus Bronchi/Bronchioles > pertussis
Which two organisms are most commonly found in lung infections of the immunocompromised?
Aspergillus and Pneumocystis (both are opportunistic yeasts/mold)
What does it mean to be a dimorphic fungus?
Found at hyphae/conidia at ambient temp; Become yeast-like at 37deg C.
Patient presents with night sweats, fatigue and fever. Examination reveals hepatomegaly. Hx reveals preexisting immuno-compromising condition. Tissue culture gives following organism. What is the dx?
Chronic pulmonary and disseminated histoplasmosis
What differentiates the yeast form of B. dermatitidis from H. capsulatum?
B. dermatitidis is larger with thicker cell walls
Which of the following results in ulcerative blastomycosis: acute pulmonary, chronic pulmonary, disseminated blastomycosis?
Disseminated blastomycosis can result in either ulcerative or verrucous lesions. Acute- Flu-like + myalgias, arthralgias Chronic- fever, night sweats, anorexia. lasts 2-6mo.
What diagnosis can be made after a histopathological observation of spherules in sputum/biopsy?
Coccidiomycosis *travel history, Rash (erythema nodosum due to valley fever)
45 y/o male pt presents is found to have abnormal structure in serology. What is the dx?
Paracoccidiodomycosis Also seen with “Mickey mouse ears” and extrapulmonary lesions found on back torso and around lips.
Space occupying lesions that move as the patient changes position is pathognomonic for which fungal microbe.
Asperillus *also seen: hyphal penetration of blood vessels in hemoptysis, septate hyphae (V-shape branches at 45deg Cel), fungal ball in CXR + biopsy
Which fungal microbe has been noted to cause infection in dogs and horses in endemic regions
Blastomycosis
