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Histoplasmosis

From , former About.com Guide

Updated January 20, 2007

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Definition:
A fungal infection, commonly of the lungs, caused by the fungus Histoplasma capsulatum. This fungus is commonly found in bird and/or bat droppings in the Ohio and Mississippi Valley region, the Caribbean Islands, and in Central and South America. It is spread by breathing in the spores of the fungus. Persons with severely damaged immune systems, such as those with AIDS, are vulnerable to a very serious disease known as progressive disseminated histoplasmosis.

Fungal Opportunistic Infection Fact Sheet

Also Known As:
Histo

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