Fungal Infections

Types of Fungal Infections

Depending on where you live in the world, you might be at risk of getting fungal infections. These infections can be quite dangerous and can be difficult to treat. Below you’ll find some information about some of the most common types of fungal infections.

Candida

Yeast infections in the body can cause unpleasant and painful symptoms. It is important to treat a Candida infection as soon as possible. Infections caused by Candida can occur anywhere in the body.

When a Candida infection is left untreated, it can spread to other areas of the body and cause a serious infection. If the infection is severe, it can travel to the bloodstream. In some cases, it can lead to an infection in the brain or liver. The infection can also cause itching and pain.

Skin fungal infections are generally not life-threatening, but they can have unpleasant symptoms. They can appear as a rash that may be red, white or a mixture of both. It may also be accompanied by small pustules on the edges of the rash. Depending on the location of the infection, specific medicines are used to treat it.

Candida infections in the skin are typically found in the groin, armpits, and diaper rash. They can also affect the scalp, face, and trunk. They can be very difficult to treat.

Candidiasis of the skin can be caused by a number of underlying health conditions. People with AIDS/HIV, hypoparathyroidism, or Addison’s disease are at a greater risk of developing skin fungal infections. These conditions can cause the immune system to be compromised, making it more difficult to fight the infection. Antibiotics, corticosteroids, or other medications can also contribute to the development of cutaneous candidiasis.

Coccidioidomycosis

Among the fungal infections is coccidioidomycosis. It occurs in arid regions in Central and South America. The fungus Coccidioides immitis is the causative agent.

Coccidioidomycosis is an infection caused by the fungus Coccidioides immitis, which is native to the southwestern United States and Central and South America. The disease is endemic in these regions. It is characterized by multiple thin-walled cavities that form in the skin. The diameter of the cavities ranges from two to four centimeters. The infection is not contagious. In humans, it is acquired by inhaling airborne fungal spores.

In endemic areas, up to 100,000 primary coccidioidal infections are observed annually. The majority of patients develop a mild to severe episode of pneumonia. In rare cases, patients develop an extrapulmonary infection. Some animals may also be affected. It is commonly seen in slaughterhouses and feedlots.

It is known to cause respiratory disorders in both humans and animals. Coccidioidomycosis can be a cutaneous or systemic infection. Some animals may be symptomatic, while others may have subclinical infections. The disease can be diagnosed by a combination of serological tests and histologic examination. However, the sensitivity of these tests is low during the acute phase of infection. Using antigen testing is helpful for patients with a high fungal burden, or those who are immunocompromised.

Patients with primary infection may present with nonspecific respiratory symptoms, such as cough and dyspnea. The disease may also progress to chronic pneumonia. If the disease is severe, the patient may develop fever and other symptoms. In addition, x-ray findings may be present.

Histoplasmosis

Having Histoplasmosis can be an extremely serious health problem. It can cause chronic lung disease that resembles tuberculosis, and can also affect other organs. Symptoms include cough, fever, and chest pains.

Histoplasmosis is caused by a microscopic fungus, which can infect humans and animals. It is common in damp soil and soil that is contaminated with bird or bat feces. It is not contagious, but it can cause severe illness in immunocompromised individuals.

Histoplasmosis can be deadly if left untreated. The infection is more common in people who have cancer or are on steroids or TNF blockers.

Symptoms include chest pains, hoarseness, headache, chills, dry cough, loss of appetite, and general malaise. Some people develop a rash. It can also cause generalized infection, which can affect the skin, liver, and bone marrow.

People who work in construction or agriculture are at a higher risk for Histoplasmosis. These individuals are often exposed to a soil that is not sprayed. They may also be exposed to spores that are carried in the air when the soil is disturbed.

People who have Histoplasmosis can develop symptoms ranging from a mild flulike illness to severe pneumonia and pulmonary sequela. Often, symptoms are mistaken for a cold, but the fungus may also cause fever, fatigue, and joint pain.

Treatment for severe cases includes antifungal drugs. Treatment for chronic histoplasmosis can include itraconazole and amphotericin B.

If you suspect you have histoplasmosis, see your doctor. He or she will take blood, urine, or histological tests to determine whether you have the fungus.

Aspergillosis

Symptoms of aspergillosis can vary from mild to severe. They may include shortness of breath, coughing up blood, fever, and chest pain. People with weakened immune systems may be more susceptible to this infection. In some cases, the infection can damage the kidneys, brain, and nervous system.

Aspergillosis is usually caused by Aspergillus fungus. Aspergillus spores can invade other parts of the body as well, including the ear canal, sinuses, and nose. People with asthma are more likely to have an allergic reaction to Aspergillus.

People with cystic fibrosis should have regular screening to catch Aspergillosis before it becomes serious. Patients with HIV/AIDS are also at risk for Aspergillosis. The infection may also occur in people who are taking immunosuppressive drugs for cancer.

In invasive aspergillosis, Aspergillus spores penetrate through the bloodstream and begin to attack the lungs. Aspergillus infection is often fatal. A person with aspergillosis may also develop kidney failure and liver failure.

The risk of developing aspergillosis increases with age. The infection also occurs more frequently in people who have weakened immune systems. People who are receiving broad-spectrum antibiotics, chemotherapy, and corticosteroids may also be at risk.

Diagnosis of aspergillosis is based on a detailed clinical evaluation and a variety of specialized tests. Some of these tests include blood tests, a CT scan, and a tissue biopsy.

In severe cases of aspergillosis, surgery may be required. In rare cases, antifungal drugs may be required to treat the infection. Several powerful drugs are available, including caspofungin and voriconazole.

Nail fungus

Getting a nail fungus infection can be a very painful experience. It can also affect your personal and professional life. If left untreated, nail fungus can cause permanent loss of nails. If you have a nail fungus infection, you should seek professional help right away.

A nail fungus infection usually begins as a white or yellow spot at the tip of the nail. It may also have a slight odor. It can be caused by a number of different fungal organisms.

Some people are more susceptible to nail fungus than others. People with poor circulation or weakened immune systems are at a higher risk. The environment can also make it easier for the fungus to spread.

You can avoid getting a nail fungus infection by maintaining good hygiene and keeping your feet clean. Wear shoes that aren’t too tight and that allow air circulation. You should also change your socks frequently and wear socks that are clean and sanitized.

People with diabetes or a weakened immune system may also be more susceptible to nail fungus infections. They should also talk to their doctor about taking antifungal medication. These medications may be prescribed for a period of six to 12 weeks. During this time, you may need to take liver function tests.

Oral medications are also effective for nail fungus infections. They are often more effective than topical treatments. However, they also have side effects, including liver damage and heartburn.

Health Sources:

Health A to Z. (n.d.). HSE.ie. https://www2.hse.ie/az/