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Updated: Aug 6, 2026
09:57
Passive Administration of Monoclonal Antibodies Against H. capsulatum and Others Fungal Pathogens
Published on: February 14, 2011
[Disseminated histoplasmosis in children]
G Ramón-García1, Y R Peña-Alonso, P G Ontiveros-Nevares
1Departamento de Patología, Hospital Infantil de México Federico Gómez, México, D.F.
Boletin Medico Del Hospital Infantil De Mexico
|December 1, 1993
Summary
Disseminated histoplasmosis is a severe fungal infection primarily affecting immunocompromised individuals, children, and the elderly. Autopsy findings revealed malnutrition as a key factor in lethal cases among children in endemic regions.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
- Pediatrics
Context:
- Disseminated histoplasmosis is a severe, rare fungal infection caused by Histoplasma capsulatum.
- It predominantly affects immunocompromised individuals, young children, and the elderly.
- An autopsy review identified eight lethal cases over eight years at a children's hospital.
Purpose:
- To analyze autopsy findings of lethal disseminated histoplasmosis in children.
- To identify risk factors and affected organs in pediatric cases.
- To emphasize the importance of clinical symptoms and environmental factors for diagnosis.
Summary:
- Eight pediatric cases of lethal disseminated histoplasmosis were identified via autopsy.
- All affected children were malnourished; some had primary or acquired immunodeficiency syndrome.
- Lungs, liver, and spleen were the most frequently impacted organs, with diagnosis often postmortem.
Impact:
- Highlights malnutrition as a critical factor in severe pediatric histoplasmosis.
- Underscores the diagnostic challenges, with most cases identified postmortem.
- Stresses the need for considering clinical and environmental data for early diagnosis and management in endemic areas.
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