Signs and symptoms
... Several types of histoplasmosis exist, ranging from mild to life-threatening. The most benign form produces no signs or symptoms, but severe infections may cause serious problems throughout your body....

Causes
... Histoplasma capsulatum is primarily found in the temperate regions of the world and is the most common fungus in the United States. It has been identified in at least 32 states, but it''s endemic in t...

Risk factors
... Anyone exposed to H. capsulatum is likely to become infected. People who inhale a huge number of spores — those who work with heavily infected soil or have close contact with bats, for example &...

When to seek medical advice
... Contact your doctor if you live in an area where histoplasmosis is common and you develop chest pain, cough and a fever. Although many illnesses cause similar signs and symptoms, your doctor may want ...

Screening and diagnosis
... Histoplasmosis can cause a variety of signs and symptoms, many of which resemble those of other illnesses. For that reason, it can be particularly challenging to diagnose. Complicating the matter furt...