African histoplasmosis
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Synopsis
African histoplasmosis (AH), also known as large form histoplasmosis, is a rare disease caused by infection with the thermally dimorphic fungus Histoplasma capsulatum var. duboisii. It is endemic to central and western Africa between the Sahara Desert and the Zambezi River.
Although it is believed to be acquired through inhalation, infection usually spares the lungs. Direct cutaneous infection is also possible. Typically, an infection will involve the skin, bones, or lymph nodes. Involvement of the gastrointestinal tract, lungs, and other mucosal surfaces is seen occasionally. Fever is sometimes associated. Skin lesions may spontaneously resolve.
Additionally, the chronic disseminated form may result in chronic fever, hematologic abnormalities, and multiorgan involvement of the liver, spleen, and kidneys. Miliary infiltrates can be seen on chest films late in the chronic form.
Exposures to soils from endemic areas are the only risk factor.
African histoplasmosis has been reported as an opportunistic infection associated with development of acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS).
Although it is believed to be acquired through inhalation, infection usually spares the lungs. Direct cutaneous infection is also possible. Typically, an infection will involve the skin, bones, or lymph nodes. Involvement of the gastrointestinal tract, lungs, and other mucosal surfaces is seen occasionally. Fever is sometimes associated. Skin lesions may spontaneously resolve.
Additionally, the chronic disseminated form may result in chronic fever, hematologic abnormalities, and multiorgan involvement of the liver, spleen, and kidneys. Miliary infiltrates can be seen on chest films late in the chronic form.
Exposures to soils from endemic areas are the only risk factor.
African histoplasmosis has been reported as an opportunistic infection associated with development of acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS).
Codes
ICD10CM:
B39.5 – Histoplasmosis duboisii
SNOMEDCT:
78511005 – African histoplasmosis
B39.5 – Histoplasmosis duboisii
SNOMEDCT:
78511005 – African histoplasmosis
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Last Updated:09/27/2017