Histoplasmosis around the world: A global perspective on the presentation, virulence factors, and treatment of histoplasmosis.

Histoplasmosis is a systemic infection caused by an endemic dimorphic fungus, Histoplasma capsulatum. Though prevalent in the eastern United States of America, near the Ohio and Mississippi River Valleys, the evidence underlying the global prevalence of histoplasmosis, especially in immunocompromised populations, is underappreciated. This article highlights the global epidemiology, risk factors, microbiology and pathophysiological characteristics, pulmonary and extrapulmonary manifestations, prevention measures, radiographic patterns, diagnostic techniques, and antifungal treatment approaches for Histoplasma capsulatum.

Students teaching students: A survey of a medical student led surgical skills workshop - A prospective cohort study.

BACKGROUND: Surgical skills training is a recognized vital component of medical education, yet a standardized curriculum does not exist. Early opportunities for skills development and mentorship may increase student interest in pursuing surgery. We evaluated the effects of a student-led, faculty-supervised suture clinic on student comfort level with basic surgical skills and interest in surgery. METHODS: A cohort survey study of 103 second-year medical students participating in a surgical skills course was performed between the years 2016-2018. Upon completion of the course, we assessed their comfort level with performing six basic skills as well as their interest in pursuing surgery based on pre- and post-course surveys. RESULTS: Mean age was 25 years and 50.5% were female. Most students (61.2%) had no prior suturing experience. Upon completion of the course, there was a significant improvement (p = < 0.0001) in comfort level for each of the six skills. Most students (81%) reported an increased interest in surgery. CONCLUSIONS: Early implementation of a basic skills workshop can augment student comfort level and promote an interest in surgery. Peer student mentors can effectively lead the workshop and minimize the time commitment needed by surgical faculty. This can serve as a new direction in medical education and an avenue for further studies to analyze the longitudinal effects of the curriculum on career choice and success in surgical residency.