Acute Primary Pulmonary Histoplasmosis

Primary acute pulmonary histoplasmosis is a lung infection caused by a fungus called Histoplasma, which is acquired by inhaling its spores present in certain environments.

Common causes: The spores are abundant in soils enriched with bird or bat droppings, which is why caves, chicken coops and areas with contaminated dust are exposure settings.

Common symptoms: Fever, cough, chest pain, tiredness and muscle aches that resemble a flu-like illness; many people in good health have only mild discomfort.

Which specialists handle it? The pulmonologist studies the lung involvement and the dermatologist takes part when there are skin manifestations. If respiratory symptoms that do not improve appear after being in a risk environment, it's a good idea to consult about it to guide the workup.