Histoplasmosis is a chronic, non-contagious fungal infection caused by the soil-dwelling fungus Histoplasma capsulatum. H. capsulatum is found globally and may infect both humans and animals. However, histoplasmosis is uncommon to rare in all but dogs and cats.
Can my dog survive histoplasmosis?
Histoplasmosis can be treated and dogs with lung infection often have a good prognosis with therapy, especially if treatment is started shortly after clinical signs appear. However, long-term treatment (often requiring six or more months) is required and can be expensive.
Is histoplasmosis a rare disease?
Histoplasmosis is a rare fungal infection caused by Histoplasma capsulatum. Infection occurs by inhaling spores of the fungus, which is found in soil. In North America, histoplasmosis occurs primarily in the Mississippi and Ohio River valleys.
What are the chances of getting histoplasmosis?
One study calculated the incidence of histoplasmosis in adults aged 65 years and older in the U.S. to be 3.4 cases per 100,000 population. Rates were highest in the Midwest, with an estimated 6.1 cases per 100,000 population.
How is histoplasmosis treated in dogs?
Treatment: Itraconazole (10 mg/kg/day) is the treatment of choice for disseminated histoplasmosis in dogs and cats, although fluconazole is probably also effective. Ketoconazole, 10–15 mg/kg, bid for 4–6 mo, may be effective in early or mild cases of histoplasmosis in dogs.
More useful articles on a similar topic 👇
What are the symptoms of histoplasmosis in cats?What are the chances of getting histoplasmosis?
