Study GuideMicrobiology–Diseases of the Respiratory System1.Fungal and Protozoal Diseases of the Respiratory SystemSome microorganisms—especiallyfungi and protozoa—can infect the lungs and cause seriousrespiratory diseases. These infections are often spread through the air by inhaling dust or spores andare more dangerous in people with weakened immune systems. Below are several importantrespiratory diseases explained in an easy-to-understand way.1.1HistoplasmosisHistoplasmosis is afungal diseasecaused by the yeastHistoplasma capsulatum.Once inside the body, the infection mainly affects the lungs and can closely resembletuberculosis,especially in individuals with weakened immune systems. In severe cases, the disease may spreadbeyond the lungs to other organs and become progressive.Most infections occur after exposure tobird or bat droppings, which release fungal spores into theair. When these spores are inhaled, they can enter the lungs.The antifungal drugamphotericin Bis commonly used to treat histoplasmosis, especially in seriouscases.1.2BlastomycosisBlastomycosis is caused byBlastomyces dermatitidis, ayeast-like fungus.This disease is found mainly in areas around theMississippi Valleyand is spread throughdust.After inhalation, the fungus infects the lungs and produces lesions that look similar to those seen intuberculosis.In some cases, the infection may spread from the lungs to other organs of the body. Treatmenttypically involves the antifungal drugamphotericin B.Preview Mode
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