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Blastomycosis in Wisconsin: Beyond the Outbreaks
Katrina Thompson1, Alana K Sterkel1, Erin G Brooks1
1University of Wisconsin Hospital and Clinics - Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine.
Academic Forensic Pathology
|June 27, 2019
Summary
A 2015 outbreak of the fungal infection blastomycosis in Wisconsin highlights the need for vigilance. This study reviews blastomycosis cases to help pathologists recognize this preventable cause of death.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- Blastomycosis is a fungal infection caused by *Blastomyces*.
- Most cases are sporadic, but large outbreaks can occur, posing public health challenges.
- The Little Wolf River outbreak in 2015 involved 59 confirmed and 39 probable cases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the epidemiologic and histologic characteristics of blastomycosis cases.
- To familiarize pathologists with the presentation of blastomycosis.
- To inform public health strategies for managing blastomycosis outbreaks.
Main Methods:
- Review of blastomycosis cases diagnosed at an academic medical center.
- Examination of statewide Wisconsin Department of Health Services (W-DHS) data.
- Analysis of epidemiologic and histologic features of confirmed and probable cases.
Main Results:
- The 2015 Little Wolf River outbreak was one of the largest in Wisconsin history.
- Wisconsin diagnoses an average of 118.6 confirmed blastomycosis cases annually.
- Understanding outbreak and sporadic case characteristics is crucial for diagnosis and management.
Conclusions:
- Blastomycosis outbreaks, though uncommon, necessitate prompt recognition and public health response.
- Familiarity with blastomycosis epidemiology and histology aids in timely diagnosis by pathologists.
- Vigilance is essential to prevent mortality associated with this fungal infection.
