Chronic Pulmonary Histoplasmosis

Chronic pulmonary histoplasmosis is a lung infection caused by a fungus that lives in soils enriched with bird or bat droppings; in its chronic form, the lung involvement is prolonged over time.

Common causes: It is acquired by inhaling spores of the fungus, especially in caves, chicken coops, or sites with an accumulation of guano; it tends to persist in people with prior lung damage.

Common symptoms: It may present with a prolonged cough, sputum production, fever, night sweats, fatigue, and weight loss.

Which specialist treats it? The pulmonologist assesses the respiratory involvement, while the dermatologist steps in if there are skin manifestations. In the presence of a cough that does not let up and sustained general symptoms, especially after exposure to these environments, it is best to have a professional review the case thoroughly.