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Acute Histoplasmosis in Spelunkers Returning from Mato Grosso, Peru
1Department of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, University of Brescia, Italy.
Abstract:
Background: Histoplasmosis is a fungal disease with a worldwide distribution. Travelers returning from endemic areas with a history of exposure to fungal spores have a high risk of infection. Methods: We report four cases of acute pulmonary disease in Italian spelunkers returning from Mato Grosso, Peru. Results: Symptoms and radiologic findings were consistent with acute pulmonary illness. Laboratory data supported the hypothesis of histoplasmosis. Conclusions: Histoplasmosis should be considered in the differential diagnosis in travelers returning from endemic areas, who report a risk of exposure, and present with respiratory illness. In this setting, seroconversion may be considered diagnostic of pulmonary histoplasmosis.
Insights
Histoplasmosis, a fungal infection, poses a risk to travelers in endemic areas. Early diagnosis in returning travelers with respiratory symptoms is crucial for effective treatment.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Mycology
- Pulmonary Medicine
Background:
- Histoplasmosis is a globally distributed fungal infection.
- Travelers returning from endemic regions with potential fungal spore exposure are at high risk.
- Acute pulmonary histoplasmosis can present insidiously in at-risk populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the importance of considering histoplasmosis in the differential diagnosis of respiratory illness in travelers.
- To present a case series of acute pulmonary histoplasmosis in Italian spelunkers returning from Peru.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of four cases of Italian spelunkers.
- Clinical and radiological assessment of acute pulmonary disease.
- Laboratory data analysis to support histoplasmosis diagnosis.
Main Results:
- Patients presented with symptoms and radiologic findings consistent with acute pulmonary illness.
- Laboratory results supported the diagnosis of histoplasmosis.
- The cases involved individuals returning from Mato Grosso, Peru.
Conclusions:
- Histoplasmosis should be included in the differential diagnosis for travelers with respiratory illness and exposure risk.
- Seroconversion is a valuable diagnostic marker for pulmonary histoplasmosis in this clinical context.
- Prompt recognition and diagnosis are essential for managing travel-related fungal infections.