Blastomycosis Home page Send to a friend Print this page Search for new topic
Definition


Blastomycosis Definition
Common names:
  • Blastomycosis
  • Gilchrist's Disease
What is blastomycosis?
A person with blastomycosis has a rare infection caused by the fungus, Blastomyces dermatitidis. After inhaling particles of the fungus, it causes a lung infection. The lung infection may or may not cause pneumonia. Blastomycosis is most common in men between the ages of 30 and 50 years. In North America, most cases occur in the Midwest, South-Central US, and Canada. Images

What are the symptoms of blastomycosis?
Lung infection can cause cough, fatigue, and fever. Other symptoms of blastomycosis include joint pains and muscle aches. The fungus can spread from the lungs to the skin, where it causes a rash and forms ulcers. Images

How does the doctor treat blastomycosis?
Treatment for blastomycosis includes antifungal medications.

About freeMD FAQ Terms of Use New Visitor Feedback
freeMD is provided for information purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for evaluation and treatment by a physician. Please review our terms of use.

Last Updated: Apr 17, 2009  References
Authors: Stephen J. Schueler, MDJohn H. Beckett, MDD. Scott Gettings, MD
Copyright 1989-2009 DSHI Systems, Inc.   Powered by: freeMD
Site Map
Blastomycosis References: