What Is Microbiology - Blastomycosis

​Blastomycosis

Blastomycosis may present with fever, pain in the chest and production of sputum. Blastomycosis is caused by Blastomyces dermatitidis. 

Blastomyces dermatitidis is detected by direct microscopic examination of the tissue, exudates or sputum in a potassium hydroxide preparation. The examination may reveal broad base budding yeast cells. 

Blastomyces dermatitidis may be transmitted by inhalation of the spores. The spores may lead to infiltration of the neutrophils and macrophages which may lead to formation of granuloma. 

Blastomycosis may disseminated into skin, central nervous system, bone and genitourinary tract. Contaminated soil with organic matter is the reservoir of blastomycosis infection. 

Blastomycosis is treated with amphothericin B or itraconazole.