Blastomycosis Flashcards
Blastomycosis is what type of infection?
Fungal
Blastomycosis is caused by what?
Fungus Blastomyces dermatitidis
Blastomycosis is primarily where? It can become what however?
Lungs; can become systemic
What are the symptoms of Blastomycosis?
Similar to influenza but ~ 50% exposed are asymptomatic
What increases the risk of Blastomycosis?
Diabetes and lower immune response
Where are the common reservoirs of Blastomyces dermatitidis found?
in some soils in wooded arease (Mississippi, and Ohioi Valley)
Blastomyces dermatiditis have what two forms?
yeast and mold forms
How do the two different forms of Blastomyces dermatiditis differ?
a) Yeast is a virulent form
b) Mold is environmental form
How is yeast able to escape macrophage killing?
it is is masked under 1, 3 alpha-glucan
How is Blastomyces dermatiditis diagnosed?
Microscopic detection of fungus in clinical samples and confirmation with culture
Treatement of Blastomyces dermatidis depends on what?
severity of infections and immune status of patient
What drug is used for treatment of systemic life threatening Blastomyces dermatidis?
Amphotericin B
What drug is used for treatment of mild/moderate Blastomyces dermatidis?
Azoles such as fluconazoles and itraconazoles
