Presentación atípica de histoplasmosis diseminada / Atypical presentation of disseminated histoplasmosis

La histoplasmosis es una micosis sistémica producida por una variedad de hongo dimorfo perteneciente al complejo Histoplasma capsulatum. Es una enfermedad prevalente en nuestro medio y sobre todo en pacientes viviendo con HIV con recuento de <200 linfocitos CD4/ml y con cargas virales mayores a 100.000 copias/ml. La presentación de la forma diseminada raramente suele afectar al aparato reproductor; siendo la forma más frecuente pulmonar

La importancia de la correlación clínico- epidemiológica en el diagnóstico temprano de la histoplasmosis: reporte de dos casos clínicos en Popayán, Colombia / The relevance of clinical and epidemiological correlation in the early diagnosis of histoplasmosis: report of two clinical cases in Popayán, Colombia

La histoplasmosis es una micosis endémica en Colombia. Se presentan dos casos del departamento del Cauca, para mostrar el impacto clínico que conlleva un retraso en su diagnóstico y tratamiento. Se obtuvo el consentimiento informado para revisar las historias clínicas de los pacientes y publicar los casos. El primer caso se trata de un paciente con infección por el virus de inmunodeficiencia humana (Human Immunodeficiency Virus, HIV), quien presentaba lesiones cutáneas generalizadas atribuidas inicialmente al virus del herpes; post mortem y mediante el cultivo para hongos de muestras de las lesiones dérmicas, se confirmó el diagnóstico de histoplasmosis. El segundo caso es un paciente inmunocompetente con sintomatología pulmonar, a quien se le diagnosticó tuberculosis clínicamente y se le instauró tratamiento; sin embargo, ante la nula mejoría y teniendo en cuenta el antecedente de ingreso a una cueva de murciélagos, se enfocó como una posible histoplasmosis pulmonar y se obtuvo mejoría con el tratamiento. Se revisó la literatura sobre las pruebas de laboratorio y los datos epidemiológicos de histoplasmosis que deben considerar los profesionales de la salud. Se concluyó que las instituciones de salud deben disponer de pruebas rápidas (por ejemplo, antigénicas) para el diagnóstico y tratamiento adecuado de esta micosis, además de adoptar los correctivos necesarios para minimizar la exposición a Histoplasma.

Histoplasmosis is an endemic mycosis in Colombia. Here we present two cases in the Cauca department, to indicate the clinical impact of histoplasmosis delayed diagnosis and treatment when its epidemiology is unknown. Informed consent was requested to review patients' medical records and case report publication. The first case was a patient diagnosed with human immunodeficiency virus and generalized presence of skin lesions. Initially, these lesions were diagnosed as herpes, but a postmortem diagnosis confirmed histoplasmosis through fungal cultures of tissues from the skin lesions. The second case is an immunocompetent patient with pulmonary symptoms diagnosed and treated for tuberculosis. However, given the lack of improvement and considering the bat cave entrance history, the patient was treated for possible pulmonary histoplasmosis with an adequate response. We made a review of laboratory tests and histoplasmosis epidemiological data relevant to health professionals. We concluded that health institutions must provide rapid tests, such as antigen ones, to adequately diagnose and treat this mycosis; and also take corrective measures to minimize exposure to Histoplasma.

Histoplasmosis diseminada en una paciente pediátrica inmunocompetente / Disseminated histoplasmosis in an immunocompetent pediatric patient

La histoplasmosis es una micosis endémica producida por el hongo Histoplasma capsulatum. La forma diseminada en pediatría conlleva alta morbimortalidad. Reportamos el caso de una niña inmunocompetente con diagnóstico de histoplasmosis diseminada. Paciente de 3 años de edad con cuadro clínico de síndrome febril prolongado acompañado de hepatoesplenomegalia confirmada por ecografía. Laboratorio con anemia normocítica, normocrómica y leucopenia. Se arribó al diagnóstico por biopsia de ganglio periportal y periesplénico. El cultivo fue positivo para Histoplasma capsulatum y en estudios histopatológicos se observó linfadenitis granulomatosa con elementos levaduriformes intracelulares. Realizó tratamiento con anfotericina B 1 mg/kg/día durante 6 semanas con favorable resolución clínica. Se debe considerar histoplasmosis diseminada en aquellos pacientes provenientes de zonas endémicas que presentan la tríada de fiebre, hepatoesplenomegalia y citopenias, para poder brindar un tratamiento oportuno, mejorar el pronóstico y disminuir la mortalidad de la enfermedad.

Histoplasmosis is an endemic fungal infection caused by the fungus Histoplasma capsulatum. The disseminated form is associated with a high morbidity and mortality in pediatrics. Here we report the case of an immunocompetent female patient diagnosed with disseminated histoplasmosis. She was 3 years old and presented with protracted febrile syndrome and hepatosplenomegaly confirmed by ultrasound. Lab tests showed normocytic anemia and leukopenia. Diagnosis was made by periportal and perisplenic lymph node biopsy. The culture was positive for Histoplasma capsulatum and histopathological studies showed granulomatous lymphadenitis with intracellular yeast-like elements. Amphotericin B was administered at 1 mg/kg/day for 6 weeks, with a favorable clinical course. Disseminated histoplasmosis should be considered in patients from endemic areas who present the triad of fever, hepatosplenomegaly, and cytopenias so as to provide a timely treatment, improve prognosis, and reduce the mortality from this disease.

Histoplasmosis in the anal canal: case report and literature review

We herein present the case of a patient with anal condylomatosis concomitant with histoplasmosis, whose diagnosis was only possible through the collection of material and the subsequent evidence of a primary pulmonary focus. Histoplasmosis is a fungal disease whose contamination occurs through the respiratory route, and it can spread to the digestive tract, but the anus is rarely affected. It is important to have a high degree of suspicion to make the diagnosis, especially in immunosuppressed patients.

Factors interfering with the production of Histoplasma capsulatum antigens / Fatores que interferem na produção de antígenos de Histoplasma capsulatum

Histoplasma capsulatum causes systemic mycosis that depends on host susceptibility, fungal virulence, and factors associated with the infectious process. We evaluated the possible interference of the phenotype of 12 samples of H. capsulatum isolated from HIV-positive and negative patients in obtaining antigens, aiming at the serological diagnosis through the gender-specific recognition of the H and M fractions. The antigens were evaluated by double immunodiffusion against H. capsulatum anti-antigen polyclonal antibody and serum samples from patients with histoplasmosis.The phenotypic evaluation revealed differences in the identification of the fungal agent and in the expression of H and M antigens, considered serological markers of the disease, associated with pigmentation and the production of conidia. It was found that antigenic preparations obtained from H. capsulatum isolated from HIV-positive patients may have satisfactory antigenic capacity. The patient's immune status does not seem to interfere with the expression of antigenic proteins secreted by H. capsulatum. However, we suggest that prolonged use of antiretrovirals drugs or steroids can cause important phenotypic alterations. We showed that some fungal samples from patients with a long history of immunosuppressive drugs produced atypical cellular elements and low reactivity against the H and M fractions. (AU)

Histoplasma capsulatum causa micose sistêmica endêmica que depende da suscetibilidade do hospedeiro, da virulência fúngica e de fatores associados ao processo infeccioso. Avaliamos a possível interferência do fenótipo de 12 amostras de H. capsulatumisolados de pacientes HIV positivos e negativos na obtenção de antígenos, visando o diagnóstico sorológico por meio do reconhecimento gênero-específico das frações H e M. Os antígenos foram avaliados por imunodifusão dupla, frente a anticorpo policlonal anti-antígeno de H. capsulatum e frente a amostras de soro de pacientes com histoplasmose. A avaliação fenotípica revelou diferenças, não só na identificação do agente fúngico, mas também na expressão dos antígenos H e M, considerados marcadores sorológicos da doença, associados à pigmentação e produção de conídios. Verificou-se que preparações antigênicas obtidas de H. capsulatum isoladas de pacientes HIV positivos podem ter capacidade antigênica satisfatória. O estado imunológico do paciente parece não interferir na expressão de proteínas antigênicas secretadas por H. capsulatum. No entanto, sugerimos que o uso prolongado de antirretrovirais e/ou esteróides pode causar alterações fenotípicas importantes. Verificou-se que algumas amostras fúngicas isoladas de pacientes com longo histórico de uso de imunossupressores produziram elementos celulares atípicos e baixa reatividade sorológica contra as frações H e M de H. capsulatum. (AU)

Brote de histoplasmosis en el contexto de la pandemia por COVID-19 / Histoplasmosis outbreak in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic

La histoplasmosis es una micosis profunda de distribución mundial causada por el Histoplasma capsulatum var. capsulatum. Se caracteriza por una variabilidad clínica que depende principalmente de la carga fúngica, del estado inmunológico del paciente y de la virulencia del germen. Se describe un brote de histoplasmosis pulmonar aguda en militares, producido en el contexto epidemiológico de la COVID-19. El episodio tuvo lugar a partir de actividad laboral en cuevas donde participaron cuatro militares, tres de los cuales desarrollaron síntomas y fueron admitidos en el Hospital Dr. Gustavo Aldereguía Lima de Cienfuegos en enero de 2022. La información fue obtenida a través de la entrevista médica y la historia clínica. Se evidenció que en el contexto epidemiológico de la pandemia por COVID-19 no se debe subestimar el diagnóstico de otras enfermedades respiratorias, incluidas las micosis endémicas(AU)

Histoplasmosis is a deep mycotic infection of worldwide distribution caused by Histoplasma capsulatum var. capsulatum. It is characterized by clinical variability that depends mainly on the fungal load, the patient's immune status and the virulence of the germ. We describe an outbreak of acute pulmonary histoplasmosis among military officers, which occurred in the epidemiological context of COVID-19. The episode occurred during work activities in caves in which four soldiers participated, three of whom developed symptoms and were admitted to the "Dr. Gustavo Aldereguía Lima" Hospital in Cienfuegos in January 2022. The information was obtained through medical interviews and clinical records. It was evidenced that in the epidemiological context of the COVID-19 pandemic, the diagnosis of other respiratory diseases, including endemic mycoses, should not be underestimated(AU)

A rare case of disseminated Histoplasmosis mimicking Varicella in a 28-year-old immunocompetent female

@#Histoplasmosis is well-characterized as a fungal disease that more commonly occurs in North America, mostly endemic in Ohio and Mississippi river valleys. The clinical spectrum of histoplasmosis ranges from asymptomatic infection to a fatal disease. Progressive disseminated histoplasmosis is typically seen in immunocompromised individuals and presents with non-specific systemic symptoms associated with cutaneous manifestations of papules and nodules.? We report a case of a 28-year old Filipino female with a history of exposure to soil activities months before consult. The patient presented with a 3-week history of erythematous macules, vesicles, and pustules over the face, arms, and trunk, which evolve into papules and plaques with hemorrhagic crusting. Patient was initially diagnosed and treated as a case of varicella but had no improvement with initial management. Histopathologic findings were consistent with histoplasmosis. The patient was started with oral itraconazole, but unexpectedly expired before any improvement in cutaneous symptoms were noted.

Disseminated histoplasmosis in a 53-year-old HIV-negative Filipino male: A case report

Introduction@#Histoplasmosis is a disease of global distribution with diverse manifestations caused by the dimorphic fungus Histoplasma capsulatum. It is frequently described in severely immunocompromised and Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)-positive individuals. Despite being widely reported in Southeast Asia, few cases have been reported in the Philippines. @*Case Report@#A 53-year-old Filipino male who presented with umbilicated papules resembling molluscum contagiosum, and a previous history of a left lung mass with initial complaints of cough and hemoptysis. Gram stain of his sputum revealed the presence of fungal elements, otherwise not specified. In relation to this, a fine-needle aspiration biopsy of the suspected lung mass was done. However, findings were negative for malignant cells and fungi. Dermoscopy revealed central ulceration and necrosis with faint peripheral arborizing telangiectasia and surrounding superficial scaling. Histopathologic analysis revealed a diffuse granulomatous dermatitis, and Periodic acid-Schiff (PAS) and Grocott methenamine silver (GMS) stains showed numerous small yeast-like structures measuring approximately 3.74µm in diameter. Tissue culture of the skin lesion on the right thigh isolated fungal elements but was not specified. As histoplasmosis is an AIDS-defining infection and often found in immunocompromised states, screening for HIV was done which revealed negative results. Interestingly, disease distribution of histoplasmosis in the Philippines was frequently found in HIV-negative patients. Due to persistent serum creatinine elevation of over 300 µmol/L, renal biopsy was also done and revealed similar fungal elements. With these findings, a diagnosis of disseminated histoplasmosis was made. After a month of treatment with oral itraconazole, there was marked improvement of the patient’s skin lesions.@*Conclusion@#This case highlights the importance of recognizing cutaneous manifestations and maintaining a high index of suspicion for histoplasmosis in HIV-seronegative patients.

Presentación cutánea atípica de histoplasmosis diseminada en paciente con VIH/sida / Atypical cutaneous presentation of disseminated

La histoplasmosis diseminada es una infección oportunista frecuente en los pacientes VIH/sida. Frecuentemente se encuentra compromiso cutáneo, siendo las formas clínicas más comunes el aspecto moluscoide, variceliforme y papulonecrótico.Se presenta el caso de una paciente con una forma cutánea atípica de histoplasmosis diseminada similar a pioderma gangrenoso cuyo diagnóstico fue realizado mediante escarificación.Es importante mantener la sospecha clínica en estas presentaciones atípicas y reforzar la utilidad de la escarificación de lesiones cutáneas como método rápido y efectivo para su diagnóstico.

Disseminated histoplasmosis is a frequent opportunistic infection in HIV/AIDS patients. Cutaneous manifestations are common, the most frequent are molluscum contagio-sum-like lesions, varicelliform eruption and papulo-necro-tic lesions.We present a case of an atypical disseminated cutaneous histoplasmosis with pyoderma gangrenosum-like ulcers, diagnosed by direct examination of tissue smear.It is important to have a high clinical suspicion of this atypical presentation and to emphasize the usefulness of skin smear as a simple and effective test to establish its diagnosis

Multiparametric assay of screening for the diagnosis of mycoses of interest in Public Health: standardization of methodology / Ensaio multiparamétrico de triagem para diagnóstico de micoses de interesse em Saúde Pública: padronização da metodologia

The standardization and validation of a multiplex assay requires the combination of important parameters such as sensitivity and specificity, acceptable levels of performance, robustness, and reproducibility. We standardized a multiparametric Dot-blot aimed at the serological screening of paracoccidioidomycosis, histoplasmosis, and aspergillosis. A total of 148 serum were evaluated: 10 from healthy subjects, 36 from patients with paracoccidioidomycosis, 62 from patients with histoplasmosis, and 40 from patients with aspergillosis. It was found that the multiparametric Dot-blot showed a high percentage of cross-reactivity. However, when evaluated individually, in the serological screening of histoplasmosis, a good performance was observed when compared to the double immunodiffusion assay, considered the gold standard test, with 100% co-positivity and 83.3% co-negativity. The performance of serological screening for aspergillosis was not satisfactory when compared to double immunodiffusion, showing 71.4% co-positivity and 100% co-negativity. The evaluation of the stability of nitrocellulose membranes showed that membranes sensitized with H. capsulatum antigen remained stable for 90 days and those sensitized with A. fumigatus antigen for 30 days. We conclude that the use of crude antigens was not suitable for the standardization of the multiparametric Dot-blot assay, due to the high cross-reactivity, and that further tests should be performed with purified proteins (AU).

A padronização e validação de um ensaio multiplex requer a combinação de parâmetros importantes, como sensibilidade e especificidade, níveis aceitáveis de desempenho, robustez e reprodutibilidade. Este trabalho padronizou um Dot-blot multiparamétrico visando a triagem sorológica da paracoccidioidomicose, histoplasmose e aspergilose. Foram avaliadas 148 amostras de soro: 10 de indivíduos saudáveis, 36 de pacientes com paracoccidioidomicose, 62 de pacientes com histoplasmose e 40 de pacientes com aspergilose. Verificou-se que o Dot-blot multiparamétrico apresentou elevado percentual de reatividade cruzada. Entretanto, quando avaliado individualmente, na triagem sorológica da histoplasmose observou-se bom desempenho quando comparado ao ensaio de imunodifusão dupla, considerado o teste padrão ouro, com 100% de co-positividade e 83,3% de co-negatividade. O desempenho da triagem sorológica da aspergilose não foi satisfatório quando comparado a imunodifusão dupla, apresentando 71,4% de co-positividade e 100% de co-negatividade. A avaliação da estabilidade das membranas de nitrocelulose mostrou que membranas sensibilizadas com antígeno de H. capsulatum permaneceram estáveis por 90 dias e as sensibilizadas com antígeno de A. fumigatus, por 30 dias. Concluímos que o uso de antígenos brutos não foi adequado para a padronização do ensaio de Dot-blot multiparamétrico, devido ao alto índice de reatividade cruzada, e que novos testes devem ser realizados com proteínas purificadas (AU).

Oral manifestations of systemic fungal infections: 25-year experience in an endemic region

Some mycoses are endemic. They develop through hematogenous spread, causing a generalized infection, usually with secondary mucosal involvement.The aim of this observational and retrospective study was to report the prevalence and characteristics of oral lesions in patients diagnosed with systemic fungal infections (SFI) over a 25-year period in southern Brazil. Demographic (age, sex, ethnicity, occupation) and clinical (anatomical location, symptoms,histopathological diagnosis and management) data from the medical records of patients with SFI were collected from 1995 to 2019. 34 cases of SFI were found, of which 31 (91.18%) were diagnosed as paracoccidioidomycosis (PCM) and 3 (8.82%) as histoplasmosis. Men were much more affected (n = 31; 91.18%), with an average age of 46.9 years. Most patients (n = 18; 58.06%) were Caucasian; 48% (n = 15) were farm/rural workers and the most affected region was the jugal mucosa (n = 13; 25.49%) followed by the alveolar ridge (n = 12; 23.52%). All patients with histoplasmosis were immunocompetent men (mean age: 52.67 years), and the palate was the most affected. All patients underwent incisional biopsy and were referred to an infectologist. The dentist has an essential role in the recognition of SFI, whose oral manifestations may be the first sign. SFI should be included in differential diagnosis in patients from endemic areas. In addition, the inevitable human mobility and globalization make knowledge of these mycosesnecessary worldwide, especially since advanced cases in immunocompromised patients can be fatal.

Forma aguda de histoplasmose em paciente imunocompetente: relato de caso / Acute form of histoplasmosis in immunocompetent patient: case report

A histoplasmose é uma doença granulomatosa infecciosa sistêmica cuja transmissão é aerógena e a contaminação se dá pelo contato com fezes de aves e morcegos, depende da exposição e da imunidade do paciente. Trata-se de uma doença com difícil diagnóstico, dada a semelhança dos sintomas com os de outras doenças granulomatosas infecciosas, principalmente em pacientes imunocompetentes, visto que a regressão é geralmente espontânea. Um homem de 34 anos, branco, natural e procedente de Atibaia, previamente hígido, iniciou quadro de dor e edema no tornozelo esquerdo, e evoluiu com dispneia progressiva, com piora ao decúbito, acompanhada de sudorese noturna, tosse seca e febre baixa. Foi realizado o exame de tomografia computadorizada (TC) de tórax sem contraste, que evidenciou espessamento difuso das paredes brônquicas, de aspecto inflamatório, micronódulos esparsos bilateralmente. Paciente apresentou PCR elevado, COVID, sorologias, BAAR e hemoculturas negativas, punção articular e ecocardiograma sem alterações. Optado por COXCIP 4, sulfametoxazol-trimetoprim e anfotericina B de forma empírica. Pesquisa de fungos em escarro positivo; leveduras e lavado brônquico sugestivos de histoplasmose. Evoluiu com insuficiência respiratória necessitando de intubação orotraqueal, posteriormente, traqueostomia e apesar do tratamento antifúngico, evoluiu com óbito após 21 dias. A histoplasmose é uma doença grave, com diversas formas clínicas e prognóstico normalmente autolimitado, mas que pode ser fatal, mesmo em pacientes previamente imunocompetentes.

Histoplasmosis is a systemic infectious granulomatous disease whose transmission is airborne, and contamination occurs through contact with bird and bat feces, depending on the exposure and immunity of the patient. It is a disease with difficult diagnosis, given the similarity of symptoms with those of other infectious granulomatous diseases, especially in immunocompetent patients since regression is usually spontaneous. A 34-year-old Caucasian man from Atibaia, previously healthy, developed pain and swelling in his left ankle, progressing to progressive dyspnea, worsening in recumbency, accompanied by night sweats, dry cough and low-grade fever. A non-contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) scan of the chest was performed, which showed diffuse thickening of the bronchial walls, with an inflammatory appearance, and bilaterally sparse micronodules. Patient had high C-reactive protein, COVID, serology, BAAR and negative blood cultures, joint puncture, and echocardiogram without changes. Empirically opted for COXCIP 4, trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole and amphotericin B. Search for fungi in positive sputum, yeasts, and bronchial lavage suggestive of histoplasmosis. He envolved with respiratory failure requiring orotracheal intubation, later tracheostomy and despite antifungal treatment, he died after 21 days. Histoplasmosis is a serious disease, with several clinical forms and a prognosis that is usually self-limiting, but it can be fatal, even in previously immunocompetent patients

Histoplasmosis pulmonar cavitada en un paciente pediátrico: reporte de caso / Acute cavitated pulmonary histoplasmosis in a pediatric patient: a case report

La histoplasmosis es una micosis producida por el Histoplasma capsulatum. Esta condición es endémica en Estados Unidos, Suramérica, América central y África. Suele presentarse en todas las edades, pero en niños; en especial en aquellos inmunodeprimidos, se han descrito presentaciones graves o atípicas. Se presenta el caso de un paciente de 16 años con antecedentes de trasplante renal, que inicia con síntomas respiratorios inespecíficos, tos y alzas térmicas intermitentes. La radiografía de tórax mostró una imagen de condensación cavitada en el lóbulo superior izquierdo, por lo que se realiza una fibrobroncoscopia, lavado broncoalveolar y cultivos para patógenos habituales, micobacterias y hongos, lográndose aislar al Histoplasma capsulatum. EL objetivo de este trabajo es el de resaltar la consideración de histoplasmosis como diagnóstico diferencial de lesiones cavitadas en parénquima pulmonar en pacientes inmunodeprimidos con la presentación de un caso clínico.

Histoplasmosis is a mycosis caused by Histoplasma capsulatum. This condition is endemic in the United States, South America, Central America, and Africa. It usually occurs in all ages, but in children, especially those immunosuppressed, serious or atypical presentations have been described. We present the case of a 16-year-old patient with a history of kidney transplantation that began with nonspecific respiratory symptoms, cough, and intermittent fever peaks. Imaging findings suggestive of cavitation were found, which by means of a fiberoptic bronchoscopy and bronchoalveolar lavage study isolated Histoplasma capsulatum by means of a deep mycosis culture. The main interest of the case presented is the consideration of histoplasmosis in the presence of cavitated lesions in the lung parenchyma in immunosuppressed patients.

Histoplasmosis diseminada en una mujer con artritis seronegativa / Disseminated histoplasmosis in a woman with seronegative arthritis

Resumen Histoplasma capsulatum es un hongo ambiental que se encuentra distribuido comúnmente en los valles de los ríos Ohio y Mississippi, América Central, Sudamérica y Asia. Las zonas más afectadas en Argentina son las cuencas de los ríos Paraná y de La Plata. Los pacientes con histoplasmosis tienen una amplia variedad de manifestaciones clínicas. La mayoría son asintomáticos, mientras que aquellos con com promiso de la inmunidad celular tienen un riesgo aumentado de padecer la forma diseminada. Presentamos el caso de una mujer adulta, en tratamiento con metotrexato por una artritis seronegativa, que desarrolló la forma diseminada de la enfermedad, y que representó un desafío diagnóstico debido a la dificultad para identificar el agente etiológico.

Abstract Histoplasma capsulatum is an environmental fungus commonly found in the Ohio and Mississippi River valleys, Central and South America, and Asia. The most affected areas in Argentina are the Paraná and de La Plata river basins. Patients with histoplasmosis can have a wide range of clinical presentations. Most of them are asymptomatic, while those with compromised cellular immunity are at increased risk for the disseminated form. We present the case of a patient undergoing treatment with methotrexate for seronegative arthritis who developed the disseminated form of the disease, and who represented a diagnostic challenge due to the difficulty in identifying the etiologic agent.

Histoplasmosis diseminada progresiva aguda en un paciente inmunocompetente / Acute progressive disseminated histoplasmosis in an immunocompetent patient

RESUMEN La histoplasmosis diseminada progresiva constituye una expresión singular y rara de la infección por Histoplasma capsulatum. Sus formas agudas de presentación suelen aparecer en pacientes con deficiencias inmunitarias graves (fundamentalmente VIH). Sin embargo, en regiones de alta endemicidad, incluso pacientes sin inmunodeficiencia demostrada pueden desarrollar esta afección. Se presentó un paciente de 47 años de edad, con antecedentes de haber sufrido un cuadro grave de histoplasmosis pulmonar 18 años antes. El paciente fue ingresado por un cuadro de: fiebre, astenia, sudoración nocturna, disnea, tos seca, hepatoesplenomegalia, anemia y trombocitopenia marcada. Progresó a una insuficiencia respiratoria aguda y fue internado en cuidados intensivos con ventilación mecánica invasiva. Se demostró crecimiento de Histoplasma capsulatum en la muestra de lavado bronquioalveolar y reacción granulomatosa no caseificante en médula ósea, confirmándose el diagnóstico de histoplasmosis diseminada progresiva. El paciente recibió tratamiento con anfotericina B y se recuperó totalmente en pocas semanas.

ABSTRACT Progressive disseminated histoplasmosis is a unique and rare expression of the infection cause by Histoplasma capsulatum. Its acute forms of presentation usually appear in patients with severe immunodeficiency disorders (mainly HIV). However, even patients without proven immunodeficiency can develop this condition in regions of high endemicity. We present a 47-year-old male patient with a previous history of severe pulmonary histoplasmosis eighteen years earlier. The patient was admitted due to the presence of fever, asthenia, night sweats, dyspnea, dry cough, hepatosplenomegaly, anemia and marked thrombocytopenia. He progressed to acute respiratory failure and was admitted to the intensive care unit requiring invasive mechanical ventilation. Growth of Histoplasma capsulatum was demonstrated in the bronchoalveolar lavage sample and a non-caseating granulomatous reaction was found in the bone marrow, confirming the diagnosis of progressive disseminated histoplasmosis. The patient received amphotericin B treatment and made a full recovery within a few weeks.

Histoplasmosis bucal / Oral histoplasmosis

Introducción: La histoplasmosis es una micosis causada por Histoplasma capsulatum. Este hongo se encuentra en las excretas de algunos animales (murciélagos y aves) y su reservorio es el suelo. Es una enfermedad endémica en el continente americano. La inhalación de esporas causa infección pulmonar primaria que puede diseminarse. Objetivo: Describir un caso de histoplasmosis bucal en un paciente seronegativo al virus de inmunodeficiencia humana. Caso clínico: Paciente diabético, fumador y alcohólico con cuadro febril de varios meses acompañado de manifestaciones respiratorias. Además, se constataron úlceras en encías y lengua, lesiones nodulares en mucosas del carrillo, fondo del surco vestibular y reborde alveolar. Se informó anemia, leucopenia y aumento de la velocidad de sedimentación globular. El diagnóstico se confirmó mediante citología e histopatología. La terapéutica empleada fue itraconazol 200 mg tres veces al día, luego 200 mg dos veces al día por dos meses y una tableta diaria hasta seis meses después del segundo mes. El paciente se encuentra asintomático y las lesiones bucales desaparecieron. Conclusiones: La histoplasmosis se diagnostica fundamentalmente por la epidemiología, la clínica y el cultivo. Los estudios citopatológicos e histopatológicos de la úlcera confirman el diagnóstico. Este caso representa una forma no habitual de presentación de la enfermedad, que aunque no se sospecha usualmente, puede ocurrir. Este trabajo es una alerta a los estomatólogos, maxilofaciales y a todo aquel personal de la salud que asiste a pacientes con manifestaciones sistémicas(AU)

Introduction: Histoplasmosis is a mycosis caused by Histoplasma capsulatum. This fungus is found in the feces of some animals (bats and birds) and its reservoir is the soil. Histoplasmosis is an endemic disease in the American continent. Inhalation of spores causes primary pulmonary infection, which may in turn be disseminated. Objective: Describe a case of oral histoplasmosis in a patient seronegative to the human immunodeficiency virus. Clinical case: A case is presented of a diabetic, smoker and alcoholic patient with fever of several months' evolution and respiratory manifestations. Examination revealed ulcers in the patient's gums and tongue, as well as nodular lesions in the mouth mucosa, the bottom of the vestibular sulcus and the alveolar ridge. Laboratory testing found anemia, leucopenia and an increased globular sedimentation rate. The diagnosis was confirmed by cytology and histopathology. The treatment indicated was 200 mg itraconazole three times a day and then 200 mg twice a day for two months, and a daily tablet for six months after the second month. The patient is now asymptomatic and the oral lesions have disappeared. Conclusions: Histoplasmosis is mainly diagnosed by epidemiological testing, clinical examination and culture. Cytopathologic and histopathological analysis of the ulcer confirm the diagnosis. The case illustrates an infrequent form of presentation of the disease, not usually suspected but possible. The study is a warning to dentists, maxillofacial specialists and all the health personnel caring for patients with systemic manifestations(AU)

Histoplasmosis: informe de un caso / Histoplasmosis: a case report

Objetivo: Describir el diagnóstico y el tratamiento interdisciplinario de un caso clínico de histoplasmosis. Caso clínico: Un paciente masculino de 39 años, con antecedentes de consumo de drogas, alcohol, tabaquismo crónico y VIH+ sin adherencia al tratamiento, acudió al Servicio de Odontología por una interconsulta del Servicio de Clínica Médica para la evaluación de lesiones erosivas en paladar duro y blando, reborde alveolar anterior, dorso lingual y lesión tumoral en encía anterosuperior. El diagnóstico definitivo se obtuvo por medio del análisis de muestras de biopsia transbronquial, lavado broncoalveolar y biopsia de lesión en piel. El paciente recibió tratamiento sistémico con antimicóticos (anfotericina B e itraconazol según esquema) y tratamiento local con colutorio de clorhexidina al 0,12% y 100.000 UI de nistatina en suspensión. Al momento del alta, presentaba una considerable mejoría de su estado general y de las lesiones orales, con disminución de sintomatología dolorosa. Se indicó turno para control a los 7 días de forma ambulatoria, al cual el paciente no asistió. El abordaje interdisciplinario y el análisis de los diferentes aspectos socioeconómicos, culturales, ambientales y sistémicos del paciente facilitaron el diagnóstico temprano de la enfermedad (AU)

Aim: To describe the diagnosis and interdisciplinary treatment of a clinical case of histoplasmosis. Clinical case: 39-year-old male patient with a history of drug abuse, alcohol, and chronic smoking, HIV+ without treatment compliance, attends the dental department referred by the medical department for the diagnosis of erosive lesions in the hard and soft palate, anterior alveolar ridge, lingual dorsum and tumor lesion in the anterosuperior gingiva. The definitive diagnosis was obtained by the analysis of transbronchial biopsy, bronchoalveolar lavage and skin lesion biopsy. The patient received systemic treatment with antifungals (amphotericin b, itraconazole according to protocol), and local treatment with 0.12% chlorhexidine mouthwash and 100,000 IU nystatin suspension. At the time of medical discharge, the patient presented a considerable improvement in his general condition and of the oral lesions with a reduced pain. A 7 days recall was prescribed, however the patient failed to attend. The interdisciplinary approach to the patient and the analysis of the different socio-economic, cultural, environmental and systemic aspects of the patient facilitates the early diagnosis of the disease (AU)

Primary cutaneous histoplasmosis difficult to treat in immunocompetent patient: case report and literature review / Histoplasmose cutânea primária de difícil tratamento em paciente imunocompetente: relato de caso e revisão da literatura

ABSTRACT Histoplasmosis is an infection caused by the dimorphic fungus Histoplasma capsulatum. The disease is endemic in several regions of tropical and temperate climate. The fungus presents opportunistic behavior, causing widespread infection in immunocompromised patients, resulting from complication of primary pulmonary infection, due to exogenous reinfection or reactivation of a quiescent source. In immunocompetent individuals, approximately 95% of pulmonary infections are asymptomatic. However, prolonged exposure to high amount spores may lead to acute or chronic lung infection. Due to the low amount of inoculum, primary cutaneous histoplasmosis caused by traumatic implantation is extremely rare and effectively treated with triazoles. Thus, the present study aims to report a case of primary cutaneous histoplasmosis that is difficult to treat in an immunocompetent patient, and to review the literature on the incidence of drug-resistant Histoplasma capsulatum strains in clinical practice.

RESUMO A histoplasmose é uma infecção causada pelo fungo dimórfico Histoplasma capsulatum. A doença é endêmica em diversas regiões de clima tropical e temperado. O fungo apresenta comportamento oportunístico, causando infecção disseminada em pacientes imunocomprometidos, resultante da complicação da infecção pulmonar primária, por reinfecção exógena ou reativação de um foco quiescente. Em indivíduos imunocompetentes, cerca de 95% das infecções pulmonares são assintomáticas. No entanto, a exposição prolongada à quantidade elevada de esporos pode levar à infecção pulmonar aguda ou crônica. Devido à baixa quantidade de inóculo, a histoplasmose cutânea primária causada por implantação traumática é extremamente rara e efetivamente tratada com triazóis. Assim, o presente estudo tem como objetivos relatar um caso de histoplasmose cutânea primária de difícil tratamento em paciente imunocompetente, e revisar a literatura a respeito da incidência de cepas de Histoplasma capsulatum resistentes aos fármacos utilizados na prática clínica.

Investigação de surto de Histoplasmose pulmonar aguda entre bombeiros em Brazlândia, Distrito Federal, 2017 / Investigation of acute histoplasmosis outbreak among firefighters, Distrito Federal, 2017

Objetivos: Investigar o surto de histoplasmose em bombeiros no Distrito federal/DF, ocorrido em junho de 2017. Métodos: Realizou-se um estudo de coorte por meio das entrevistas realizadas com os bombeiros mediante um questionário semiestruturado. Considerou-se infectado o bombeiro que apresentou tomografia de tórax sugestiva de histoplasmose ou reagente nos testes de imunodifusão e/ou Western blot. Coletou-se amostra ambiental e realizou-se Nested PCR específico para Histoplasma capsulatum. Resultados: Entre 35 bombeiros, 94,3% eram homens; com a mediana de idade de 37 (24-45) anos, 28 foram classificados como infectados. A média de permanência dentro da caverna foi 25 minutos. O fator de risco associado à infecção foi o ato de entrar na caverna (RR=3,86; RA=71,6; p<0,02). Entre 14 amostras ambientais, 50% foram positivas para H. capsulatum. Conclusão: Confirmou-se o surto de histoplasmose de bombeiros em Brazlândia-DF, e foram tomadas ações como a interdição da caverna e o tratamento dos bombeiros.

Objectives: To nvestigate the outbreak of histoplasmosis in firefighters in Federal District/DF, which occurred in June 2017. Methods: A cohort study was conducted through interviews with firefighters by means of a semi-structured questionnaire. Firefighters who presented chest tomography suggestive of histoplasmosis or reacted to immunodiffusion and/or Western blot tests were considered infected. Environmental samples were collected and Nested PCR specific for Histoplasma capsulatum was performed. Results: Among 35 firefighters, 94.3% were men; with a median age of 37 (24-45) years, 28 were classified as infected. The average length of stay inside the cave was 25 minutes. The risk factor associated with infection was the act of entering the cave (RR = 3.86, RA = 71.6, p <0.02). Among 14 environmental samples, 50% were positive for H. capsulatum. Conclusion: The outbreak of histoplasmosis in firefighters in Brazlândia-DF was confirmed, and actions were taken such as banning the cave and treating the firefighters