B40: Blastomycosis
Blastomycosis is a group of infectious diseases caused by the fungus Blastomyces dermatitidis, commonly found in moist soil and decomposed matter in certain regions of North America. These fungi launch into the air as tiny spores, and when inhaled, can lead to infection. Depending on the extent of exposure and the host's immune response, the infection can be asymptomatic or lead to mild to severe disease. Individuals with Blastomycosis commonly experience flu-like symptoms such as fever, chills, cough, and body aches. As the disease progresses, it can affect multiple systems in the body, including the skin, bones, and other organs, leading to more severe symptoms such as skin lesions or bone pain. Timely diagnosis is crucial as untreated Blastomycosis can become severe or even life threatening.
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