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Imported and autochthonous histoplasmosis in Italy: new cases and old problems

Claudio Farina1, Marco Rizzi, Lidia Ricci

  • 1Unità Operativa Microbiologia e Virologia, Azienda Ospedaliera Ospedali Riuniti di Bergamo, Bergamo, Italy. Farina.Claudio@sancarlo.mi.it

Revista Iberoamericana De Micologia
|November 29, 2005
PubMed

Insights

Histoplasmosis, caused by Histoplasma capsulatum var. capsulatum, is increasingly recognized in Italy. Recent cases, including an autochthonous one in an AIDS patient, suggest its presence, particularly in Northern Italy.

Area of Science:

  • Medical Mycology
  • Infectious Diseases Epidemiology

Background:

  • Historically, Italian soil was considered low-endemic for Histoplasma capsulatum var. capsulatum.
  • Autochthonous (locally acquired) histoplasmosis cases in Italy were previously rare, primarily reported in the Po valley.

Observation:

  • Four new histoplasmosis cases were documented between 1999 and 2003.
  • These cases involved AIDS patients (one autochthonous), Italian citizens, and travelers to endemic regions.
  • A review of Italian literature and personal data was conducted.

Findings:

  • Recent case data and literature review support the potential for autochthonous histoplasmosis in Italy.
  • The prevalence appears higher in the northern regions of Italy.
  • Histoplasmosis should be considered in differential diagnoses for relevant patient populations in Italy.

Implications:

  • This study highlights the evolving epidemiology of histoplasmosis in Italy.
  • Increased awareness and diagnostic vigilance are necessary, especially in immunocompromised individuals and travelers.
  • Further research into environmental reservoirs and transmission dynamics in Italy is warranted.

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