Blastomycosis Flashcards
What is blastomycosis?
An endemic community-acquired pneumonia in some parts of the U.S.
It is often misdiagnosed or diagnosed late.
What percentage of people with blastomycosis show symptoms?
About 50% of people
Those with weakened immune systems can develop severe illness, including meningitis.
What is the causative agent of blastomycosis?
The dimorphic fungus Blastomyces
Most infections in the U.S. are caused by B. dermatitidis or B. gilchristii.
Which newly described species has been attributed to recent infections in the western U.S.?
B. helicus
Where does the fungus that causes blastomycosis typically live?
In soil and decaying organic matter
Examples include wood or leaves.
In which areas of the U.S. is blastomycosis endemic?
Midwestern, south-central, and southeastern states
More common around the Ohio and Mississippi River valleys, Great Lakes.
Which regions in Canada are known to be endemic for blastomycosis?
Ontario, Saskatchewan, Quebec, and Manitoba
What activities increase the risk of acquiring blastomycosis?
Activities that disturb soil or plant matter
Examples include construction and excavations.
Which racial and ethnic groups have a higher incidence of blastomycosis?
American Indian and Alaska Natives, Asians, Native Hawaiians or other Pacific Islanders
How is blastomycosis typically acquired?
By inhaling airborne conidia from the environment
Is blastomycosis contagious?
False
It does not spread between people.
What is the most common form of blastomycosis?
Acute pulmonary blastomycosis
What are some common symptoms of blastomycosis?
Fever, cough, night sweats, muscle and joint pain, chest pain, fatigue, skin lesions
Symptoms can start from 3 weeks to 3 months after exposure.
What is the gold standard for diagnosing blastomycosis?
Culture
What type of test typically has the highest sensitivity for blastomycosis?
EIA urine antigen tests
What is the recommended treatment for moderate to severe blastomycosis?
Amphotericin B
What is the recommended treatment for mild to moderate blastomycosis?
Itraconazole
Is blastomycosis reportable in certain states?
True
Check with your state, local, or territorial health department about reporting requirements.
