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Blastomycosis in northwestern ontario
Canadian Family Physician Medecin De Famille Canadien
|February 1, 2011
Summary
Blastomycosis, a fungal infection, was diagnosed in nine Canadian Indian patients in northwestern Ontario. Early diagnosis and amphotericin B treatment led to favorable outcomes, highlighting environmental factors in disease acquisition.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- Blastomycosis is an endemic fungal infection in certain regions.
- Limited published data exists on blastomycosis in northwestern Ontario.
- This study examines cases from 1970-1983.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the clinical and epidemiological features of blastomycosis in northwestern Ontario.
- To identify risk factors associated with blastomycosis acquisition in the region.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective case series analysis.
- Review of patient records from Sioux Lookout Zone Hospital (1970-1983).
- Analysis of demographic, clinical, and treatment data.
Main Results:
- Nine cases of blastomycosis were identified, all presenting as progressive pulmonary disease.
- The affected population included seven males and two females, all Canadian Indians, aged 4-54 years.
- Diagnosis delays ranged from 11 days to 8 weeks (mean 31 days); patients responded well to amphotericin B.
Conclusions:
- Blastomycosis in this region primarily affects Canadian Indians and presents as pulmonary disease.
- Environmental, geographic, occupational, and recreational factors are crucial for disease acquisition.
- Prompt diagnosis and treatment with amphotericin B are effective.
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