What Is Blastomycosis?

Blastomycosis is a disease caused by a type of fungus called Blastomyces. The fungus can be found in soil and moist areas, such as swamps and waterways. Blastomycosis is most common in the eastern United States, especially in the Mississippi River Valley. It can also be found in other parts of the world, such as Africa and South America.

People can get blastomycosis by breathing in the spores of the fungus. These spores can be found in the air when soil or other materials are disturbed. In most people, blastomycosis causes no symptoms or only mild symptoms. In some people, however, the disease can be more severe.

Symptoms of blastomycosis can include:

* Cough

* Fever

* Chills

* Chest pain

* Shortness of breath

* Fatigue

* Loss of appetite

* Weight loss

* Muscle aches

* Joint pain

* Skin rash

Blastomycosis can also spread to other parts of the body, such as the bones, brain, or skin.

Diagnosis of blastomycosis can be made based on a person's symptoms and a physical examination. Doctors may also order tests to identify the fungus, such as a blood test or a culture of sputum or tissue.

Treatment for blastomycosis typically involves antifungal medications, such as itraconazole or amphotericin B. Treatment is usually successful if it is started early.

Prevention of blastomycosis can be difficult because it is impossible to avoid all exposure to the fungus. However, there are some things people can do to reduce their risk of getting the disease, such as:

* Avoiding areas where the fungus is known to grow

* Wearing protective clothing when working in soil or other materials that could be contaminated with the fungus

* Keeping yards and gardens clean and free of debris

* Staying indoors when the air is dusty or when the wind is blowing soil or other materials