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Oral Histoplasma capsulatum infection in association with HIV infection: a case report

G S Heinic1, D Greenspan, L A MacPhail

  • 1Department of Stomatology, University of California San Francisco 94143-0512.

Journal of Oral Pathology & Medicine : Official Publication of the International Association of Oral Pathologists and the American Academy of Oral Pathology
|February 1, 1992
PubMed

Insights

Histoplasma capsulatum causes histoplasmosis, a common respiratory fungal infection. This case highlights oral histoplasmosis in an HIV-positive patient, emphasizing diagnosis via histopathology and antibody staining.

Area of Science:

  • Mycology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Immunology

Background:

  • Histoplasmosis, caused by Histoplasma capsulatum, is the most prevalent endemic respiratory mycosis in the United States.
  • Disseminated histoplasmosis in adults frequently correlates with immunosuppression, notably in individuals with HIV infection.

Observation:

  • A case of oral histoplasmosis is presented in an HIV-seropositive patient.
  • The patient exhibited an ulceration on the left tongue tip, extending to the floor of the mouth.
  • No other active systemic disease was noted in the patient.

Findings:

  • Histoplasma capsulatum was identified within the oral lesion.
  • Histopathology and specific fluorescent antibody staining confirmed the presence of the organism.
  • The organism was determined to be the causative agent of the oral manifestation.

Implications:

  • This case underscores the importance of considering oral manifestations in immunocompromised patients, particularly those with HIV.
  • Accurate and timely diagnosis of oral histoplasmosis is crucial for effective management.
  • The findings reinforce the utility of histopathology and specific antibody staining in identifying Histoplasma capsulatum in clinical specimens.

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