B41: Paracoccidioidomycosis
Paracoccidioidomycosis is a group of infections caused by fungi of the Paracoccidioides genus, which primarily affects the lungs but can spread to other parts of the body. These fungi are typically found in soil, and infection occurs when a person inhales fungal spores. The disease is common in tropical and subtropical areas of Latin America. Signs and symptoms may include coughing, chest pain, weight loss, and fever. The disease may also cause skin sores and lesions on the mucous membranes, especially the mouth and nose. As an infection, it tends to develop slowly over several months or even years. In more severe cases, it can affect other organs like the liver, adrenal glands, or the central nervous system. The progression can be chronic or acute and is influenced by an individual's immune response. It may be more severe in people with weakened immune systems.
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