Histoplasmosis is caused by a fungus found in the Central and Eastern United States, Eastern Canada, Mexico, Central America, South America, Africa, and Southeast Asia.
Most patients have no symptoms (asymptomatic) or experience a mild flu-like illness and recover uneventfully. Acute pulmonary histoplasmosis may occur in epidemics. Progressive and chronic disease can also occur, particularly amongst those with impaired immune systems, such as people with HIV.
Risk factors include travel to or residence in the Central or Eastern United States near the great river valleys, exposure to the droppings of birds and bats, and having a compromised immune system.
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