South American blastomycosis – causes, side effects and treatments at NaturalPedia.com
Tuesday, July 17, 2018 by Ralph Flores
http://www.naturalpedia.com/south-american-blastomycosis-causes-side-effects-and-treatments-at-naturalpedia-com.html
The South American blastomycosis, also referred to as paracoccidioidomycosis, is a progressive fungal infection that affects the lungs, skin, lymph nodes, and internal organs. The condition is caused by the Paracoccidioides brasiliensis, which can be transmitted to humans through inhalation of spores.
In most cases, the South American blastomycosis do not present any symptoms. If it does, this is usually years after a patient has inhaled the fungus. Healthcare professionals diagnose the infection through tissue samples.
The infections are localized in Central and South America (particularly Brazil), hence the name. It often affects healthy individuals, most of which work in coffee growing and agriculture. However, it can also affect those with a compromised immune system, either because of a disorder or the use of immunosuppressants.
Known symptoms of South American blastomycosis
The incubation period for South American blastomycosis varies per individual: Symptoms can occur anywhere from a few weeks to years after exposure to P. brasiliensis and are highly dependent on which area of the body is affected.
- In pulmonary paracoccidioidomycosis, symptoms could include coughing, dyspnea (difficulty in breathing), fatigue, and chest pain. Adults with the condition are also at risk of degenerative changes in the lungs that could impair its function. In worse cases, this could lead to a condition called cor pulmonale, where the right ventricle of the heart is enlarged because of lung disease.
- Mucocutaneous paracoccidioidomycosis, which affects the mucous membranes, is marked by ulcers in the mucous membranes – in particular, the nose and the mouth.
- If the condition affects the lymphatic system, this can result in a generalized swelling of the lymph nodes, especially in the neck and armpits. Infected lymph nodes are painful and produce pus.
- Organs affected by visceral paracoccidioidomycosis include the liver, spleen, and the intestines. In particular, the adrenal glands are susceptible to infection, resulting in abnormally low levels of adrenal hormones.
Body systems affected by South American blastomycosis
If left untreated, South American blastomycosis could lead to the following complications.
- Chronic pulmonary sequelae – This could include pulmonary fibrosis, emphysema, and pulmonary hypertension.
- Skin lesions – The condition is caused by the spread of the infection through the bloodstream.
- Lymphadenopathy – This is usually seen in the cervical region.
Food items or nutrients that may prevent or relieve South American blastomycosis
Currently, no information exists on specific food items or diets that may prevent or treat South American blastomycosis.
Treatment and management options for South American blastomycosis
Healthcare professionals usually prescribe oral administrations of the drug itraconazole to treat South American blastomycosis. On average, a patient takes it for six to 12 months. Other options include trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole; however, these must be taken long-term (two to five years, on average). Amphotericin B can also be used in severe cases, given its adverse side effects.
Where to learn more
Summary
South American blastomycosis is a progressive fungal infection that affects the lungs, skin, lymph nodes, and internal organs.
South American blastomycosis is caused by the fungus P. brasiliensis.
South American blastomycosis can be transmitted to humans through inhalation of spores.
South American blastomycosis does not usually present any symptoms. The incubation period for South American blastomycosis varies per individual.
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