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Thoracic mycoses from endemic fungi: radiologic-pathologic correlation
H P McAdams1, M L Rosado-de-Christenson, M Lesar
1Department of Radiology, Walter Reed Army Medical Center, Washington, DC, USA.
Summary
This study examines endemic fungi like Histoplasma capsulatum, Blastomyces dermatitidis, and Coccidioides immitis, detailing their respiratory entry, varied clinical presentations, and protean radiologic findings in thoracic mycosis.
Area of Science:
- Medical Mycology
- Pulmonology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Endemic fungi such as Histoplasma capsulatum, Blastomyces dermatitidis, and Coccidioides immitis are significant respiratory pathogens.
- Infections can manifest as acute, chronic, or disseminated disease, with most acute cases being self-limiting.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the epidemiology, clinical presentations, and radiologic manifestations of thoracic mycoses caused by endemic fungi.
- To emphasize the importance of recognizing diverse radiologic findings for accurate diagnosis.
Main Methods:
- Review of literature on Histoplasma capsulatum, Blastomyces dermatitidis, and Coccidioides immitis.
- Analysis of clinical and radiologic presentations of thoracic fungal infections.
- Discussion of diagnostic approaches.
Main Results:
- Radiologic findings are diverse, including opacities, nodules, masses, cavities, and adenopathy.
- Chronic or disseminated disease predominantly affects immunocompromised individuals.
- Diagnosis relies on understanding fungal epidemiology, clinical presentation, and imaging.
Conclusions:
- Accurate diagnosis of thoracic mycosis requires comprehensive knowledge of endemic fungi, their clinical spectrum, and imaging characteristics.
- Definitive diagnosis often necessitates fungal culture or microscopic identification from infected tissues.