DEFINITION
A systemic fungal infection cause by Histoplasma capsulatum
PATHOPHYSIOLOGY
Mycelial form grows in bird manure or organically enriched soil.
Mycelium—produces infectious spores (microconidia); inhaled into the terminal airways
Spores—germinate in the lungs; develop into yeasts, which are phagocytized by macrophages
Macrophages—distribute the organisms throughout the body
Ingested organisms may directly infect the intestinal tract.
Immune response—determines whether disease develops; affected animals often develop transient, asymptomatic infection.
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