Paracoccidioidomycosis

Paracoccidioidomycosis (pronunciation: /ˌparəˌkɒksɪˌdɪɔɪdoʊmaɪˈkoʊsɪs/) is a systemic fungal infection caused by the fungus Paracoccidioides brasiliensis or Paracoccidioides lutzii. It is also known as South American blastomycosis, Lutz-Splendore-Almeida disease, or Brazilian blastomycosis.

Etymology

The term "Paracoccidioidomycosis" is derived from the Greek words para (meaning beside), coccidio (referring to coccidia, a class of parasitic fungi), mycosis (meaning fungal infection). The name reflects the disease's similarity to coccidioidomycosis, another type of fungal infection.

Symptoms

Paracoccidioidomycosis can manifest in two forms: the acute/subacute form and the chronic form. The acute/subacute form, also known as the juvenile form, primarily affects children and young adults and is characterized by rapid progression and severe symptoms such as fever, lymphadenopathy, and hepatosplenomegaly. The chronic form, also known as the adult form, is more common and typically presents with pulmonary symptoms and skin lesions.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of paracoccidioidomycosis is typically made through identification of the causative fungus in clinical specimens such as sputum, skin scrapings, or biopsy samples. This can be achieved through direct microscopic examination, culture, or serological testing.

Treatment

Treatment for paracoccidioidomycosis typically involves long-term antifungal therapy with drugs such as itraconazole or sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim. In severe cases, amphotericin B may be used.

Epidemiology

Paracoccidioidomycosis is endemic to certain regions of Latin America, including Brazil, Argentina, Venezuela, and Colombia. It is most commonly seen in rural workers who have been exposed to soil contaminated with the fungus.

External links

Medical encyclopedia article on Paracoccidioidomycosis
Wikipedia's article - Paracoccidioidomycosis

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Paracoccidioidomycosis