Disseminated Blastomycosis Flashcards
1
Q
Where is blasto endemic to?
A
Mississippi and Ohio river basins
2
Q
What are risk factors for blasto?
A
being male, middle-age, residing in an endemic area, and immune status
3
Q
What are disseminated infection symptoms?
A
In this order: mild respiratory symptoms, more severe sputum producing cough, pustular skin lesions, genitourinary tract, bones, CNS, death
4
Q
What 2 methods are used to diagnose blasto?
A
1 sputum culture: high sensitivity (86%)
2 bronchoscopy culture: better sensitivity (92%)
5
Q
How is blasto treated?
A
Antifungals for more severe disease: Amphotericin B which is effective but toxic to kidneys
6
Q
What is disseminated blastomycosis infection caused by?
A
Blastomyces dermatitidis (a dimorphic fungus associated with outdoor environments)
