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Acute pulmonary histoplasmosis: a case series from an outbreak in Southeastern Brazil
Danyelle Cristina de Souza1, Antonio Augusto Rodrigues-Neto1, Graziela Mululo Bianco Monnerat1
1Hospital Unimed Nova Friburgo, Nova Friburgo, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
Abstract:
Histoplasmosis is a systemic mycosis prevalent in the Americas. Humans become infected via the respiratory route by inhaling aerosols from soil contaminated with bird and bat excretions. Acute pulmonary histoplasmosis is usually asymptomatic and is more often a self-limiting illness. We report a series of seven acute pulmonary cases in adults during an outbreak in Nova Friburgo city, Rio de Janeiro State, Brazil, in a group of volunteers who were cleaning an old, abandoned house without using personal protective equipment. The patients had a favorable evolution after suitable treatment, but all required hospitalization.
Insights
This study details an outbreak of acute pulmonary histoplasmosis in Brazil. Seven adults required hospitalization after inhaling Histoplasma capsulatum spores while cleaning an abandoned house without protective gear.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- Histoplasmosis is a fungal infection endemic to the Americas.
- Infection occurs through inhalation of spores from contaminated soil, often linked to bird or bat droppings.
- Acute pulmonary histoplasmosis is typically asymptomatic or self-limiting.
Observation:
- An outbreak of acute pulmonary histoplasmosis occurred in Nova Friburgo, Brazil.
- Seven adult volunteers were affected after cleaning an abandoned house.
- No personal protective equipment was used during the cleaning activity.
Findings:
- All seven patients presented with acute pulmonary histoplasmosis.
- The affected individuals required hospitalization for treatment.
- Despite requiring hospitalization, patients showed favorable outcomes after treatment.
Implications:
- Highlights the risk of Histoplasma exposure in occupational and recreational settings.
- Emphasizes the importance of personal protective equipment when handling potentially contaminated environments.
- Underscores the need for prompt diagnosis and treatment of histoplasmosis outbreaks.
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