B39: Histoplasmosis

B39.3: Disseminated histoplasmosis capsulati

Disseminated histoplasmosis capsulati is a severe form of histoplasmosis, a fungal infection caused by the fungus Histoplasma capsulatum. The term "disseminated" indicates that the infection has spread throughout the body, beyond the initial site of infection, which typically initiates in the lungs following inhalation of fungal spores. Symptoms can vary widely, but often include fever, fatigue, weight loss, and respiratory complications such as cough and chest pain. Other problems like skin lesions, joint pain, or inflamed eyes may also occur if the infection reaches other organs. As the disease progresses, if left untreated, it could lead to serious complications including respiratory failure or damage to other organ systems. Most individuals at risk are those with weakened immune systems, such as HIV/AIDS patients, organ transplant recipients, and individuals on long-term corticosteroid therapy.