Histoplasmosis: The Daily PANCE Blueprint
Which of the following is the treatment of choice for severe histoplasmosis?
A. Itraconazole
B. Micafungin
C. Fluconazole
D. Caspofungin
E. Amphotericin B
Answer and topic summary
The answer is . Amphotericin B
Histoplasma capsulatum is a species of dimorphic fungus. It can cause fungal pneumonia. Risk factors include exposure to bird/bat droppings, travel to the Ohio River and Mississippi River valleys, and an immunocompromised condition. Clinical features include fever, weight loss, dry cough, and tongue ulcers. Imaging may show bilateral nodular densities and mediastinal or hilar lymphadenopathy. The best initial test is a urine and serum antigen test. Bronchoscopy may be needed to establish a diagnosis in some patients. Treatment for severe cases is amphotericin B, but itraconazole is used for mild to moderate cases. Oral itraconazole is also used for maintenance therapy.
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Covered under ⇒ PANCE Blueprint Infectious Disease ⇒ ⇒
