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Histoplasmosis is caused by inhalation of spores of Histoplasma capsulatum, which are found in places where birds and bats have roosted.

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The risk factors are high among persons working in:

Farms

Poultry

Pest control

Cave explorers

Children younger than age 2 and adults age above 55

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Common tests & procedures

Blood test: To check for antibodies that indicate histoplasmosis.

Polymerase chain reaction (PCR): These are used for detection of antigens in blood samples.

Bacteria culture test: To check for the presence of any other organisms in the body.

X-ray: To check the condition of lungs.

CT scan: CT scan of chest is performed to analyze the condition of the chest and lungs.

Histopathology and Cytology: to detect characteristic pathology and organisms by staining

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Symptoms of histoplasmosis may disappear without treatment in some people and others may need treatment to manage the infection.

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Antifungals: These are used in management of moderate to severe cases.

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Bronchoscopy: Procedure to removal of calcified lymph node which erodes the respiratory tree and causes symptoms. Rare in cases of Broncholith

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Complications

It usually last for few days. In rare cases, it might lead to :

Meningitis - inflammation of the membranes surrounding brain and spinal cords

Lymphadenopathy

Adrenal enlargement

Pneumonia

Respiratory failure which can lead to air space filled with fluid

Fibrosing mediastinitis

Hemoptysis - Occurs when the hard calcified lymph nodes erode the airway walls after lesions have healed

Superior vena cava syndrome - inflammation of pericardium hence interferes with the heart function of pumping blood

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In infants or persons with weaker immune system may develop symptoms like:

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In infants or persons with weaker immune system may develop symptoms like:

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Fever

Headache

Dry cough/cough with blood in chronic phase

Chills

Muscle aches

Chest discomfort

Pain in the joints

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Foods to eat:

Include bitter and spicy foods such as cayenne peppers, green chillies, olives, garlic, ginger and turmeric

Drinking warm tea containing cardamom, cloves, cinnamon

Drinking lots of fluids such as water and juice

Foods to avoid:

High sugar foods such as cakes

Foods rich in high sugar

Caffine

Tobacco products

Pre-packed foods

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Avoid build up of droppings from bird or bat

Use of personal protective equipment such as face masks to reduce infection

Spraying contaminated soil helps prevent spores from being released into the air

Keeping the body hydrated helps in eliminating fungus