Histoplasmosis is a disease caused by the fungus Histoplasma capsulatum. The fungus lives in the environment, usually in association with large amounts of bird or bat droppings. Lung infection can occur after a person inhales airborne, microscopic fungal spores from the environment; however, many people who inhale the spores do not get sick. The symptoms of histoplasmosis are similar to pneumonia, and the infection can sometimes become serious if it is not treated.
For other Fungal topics, visit the Fungal Homepage.
Histoplasmosis Topics
Definition
What is Histoplasmosis?…
Symptoms
Sinus & skin infections, lungs, clinical features…
Risk & Prevention
Who gets it and how it can be prevented…
Causes
Inhalation of spores from the environment…
Diagnosis & Testing
See your health care provider, sample tissue, clinical diagnosis…
Treatment & Outcomes
Antifungal treatment, mortality rate…
Additional Information
Resources and publications…
Statistics
Incidence, surveillance…
Contact Us:
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
1600 Clifton Rd
Atlanta, GA 30333 - 800-CDC-INFO
(800-232-4636)
TTY: (888) 232-6348 - New Hours of Operation
8am-8pm ET/Monday-Friday
Closed Holidays - cdcinfo@cdc.gov