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Zerbato V, Di Bella S, Pol R, D’Aleo F, Angheben A, Farina C, Conte M, Luzzaro F, Luzzati R, Principe L. Endemic Systemic Mycoses in Italy: A Systematic Review of Literature and a Practical Update. Mycopathologia 2023; 188:307-334. [PMID: 37294504 PMCID: PMC10386973 DOI: 10.1007/s11046-023-00735-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2022] [Accepted: 04/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Endemic systemic mycoses such as blastomycosis, coccidioidomycosis, histoplasmosis, talaromycosis, paracoccidioidomycosis are emerging as an important cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. We conducted a systematic review on endemic systemic mycoses reported in Italy from 1914 to nowadays. We found out: 105 cases of histoplasmosis, 15 of paracoccidioidomycosis, 10 of coccidioidomycosis, 10 of blastomycosis and 3 of talaromycosis. Most cases have been reported in returning travelers and expatriates or immigrants. Thirtytwo patients did not have a story of traveling to an endemic area. Fortysix subjects had HIV/AIDS. Immunosuppression was the major risk factor for getting these infections and for severe outcomes. We provided an overview on microbiological characteristics and clinical management principles of systemic endemic mycoses with a focus on the cases reported in Italy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Verena Zerbato
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Trieste University Hospital (ASUGI), Piazza dell’Ospitale 1, 34125 Trieste, Italy
| | - Stefano Di Bella
- Clinical Department of Medical, Surgical and Health Sciences, Trieste University, 34149 Trieste, Italy
| | - Riccardo Pol
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Trieste University Hospital (ASUGI), Piazza dell’Ospitale 1, 34125 Trieste, Italy
| | - Francesco D’Aleo
- Microbiology and Virology Unit, Great Metropolitan Hospital “Bianchi Melacrino Morelli”, 89124 Reggio Calabria, Italy
| | - Andrea Angheben
- Department of Infectious, Tropical Diseases and Microbiology, IRCCS Sacro Cuore - Don Calabria Hospital, 37024 Negrar di Valpolicella, Verona, Italy
| | - Claudio Farina
- Microbiology and Virology Laboratory, ASST “Papa Giovanni XXIII”, 24127 Bergamo, Italy
| | - Marco Conte
- Microbiology and Virology Unit, Great Metropolitan Hospital “Bianchi Melacrino Morelli”, 89124 Reggio Calabria, Italy
| | - Francesco Luzzaro
- Clinical Microbiology and Virology Unit, “A. Manzoni” Hospital, 23900 Lecco, Italy
| | | | - Roberto Luzzati
- Clinical Department of Medical, Surgical and Health Sciences, Trieste University, 34149 Trieste, Italy
| | - Luigi Principe
- Clinical Pathology and Microbiology Unit, “S. Giovanni di Dio” Hospital, 88900 Crotone, Italy
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Khalaf SA, Patel P, Caruso CR, Parrett T, Bran A. CNS Histoplasmosis as a Gliosarcoma mimicker: The diagnostic dilemma of solitary brain lesions. IDCases 2022; 27:e01364. [PMID: 35024338 PMCID: PMC8724962 DOI: 10.1016/j.idcr.2021.e01364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2021] [Revised: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Histoplasmosis is usually a benign, self-limited disease with lungs predilection. However, it might manifest as a disseminated disease in immunocompromised individuals. The involvement of the central nervous system (CNS) accounts for about 5–10% of cases with disseminated disease. Isolated histoplasmosis of the CNS is rare, and the literature shows only a few reported cases. By imaging studies, it usually presents as an isolated ring-enhancing lesion. Its spectrum of symptoms ranges from acute severe infection to progressive chronic meningitis, which delays the initial diagnosis, correct work-up and initiation of appropriate therapy. We present a case of a 57-year-old man from the Midwest of the United States who misdiagnosed with Gliosarcoma in 2019, for which he underwent appropriate management for Gliosarcoma. Presented for follow-up after new neurological symptoms; worsening in ring-enhancing brain lesions was found on magnetic resonance image MRI. After a re-examination of surgical pathological cases, histoplasmosis of the CNS was diagnosed. Failure of diagnosis CNS histoplasmosis early can lead to poor outcome and decrease chances of recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suha Abu Khalaf
- University of Missouri, Division of Infectious Diseases, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Paragkumar Patel
- University of Missouri, Division of Infectious Diseases, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Carla R Caruso
- University of Missouri, Department of Pathology and Anatomical Sciences, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Timothy Parrett
- University of Missouri, Department of Pathology and Anatomical Sciences, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Andres Bran
- University of Missouri, Division of Infectious Diseases, Columbia, MO, USA
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Nyalakonda H, Albuerne M, Suazo Hernandez LP, Sarria JC. Central Nervous System Histoplasmosis in Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome. Am J Med Sci 2016; 351:177-86. [PMID: 26897273 DOI: 10.1016/j.amjms.2015.11.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2015] [Accepted: 10/22/2015] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Involvement of the central nervous system (CNS) by Histoplasma capsulatum in AIDS is uncommon and not easily recognized. MATERIALS AND METHODS CNS histoplasmosis cases from our institution were identified by a retrospective chart review from 2004-2014. A thorough literature search was performed for additional cases and their characteristics were compared. Clinical findings, treatment and outcomes are discussed. RESULTS A total of 5 cases from our institution were identified. They had a clinical presentation that included classic signs of meningitis, often with evidence of disseminated involvement, and was typically severe with important neurological impairment. These cases were treated with antifungal agents, including a lipid amphotericin B formulation and azole drugs, but eventually 3 experienced nonresolution of their disease likely because of lack of adherence to therapy and died from their infection. The clinical presentation, treatment and outcome of these cases did not significantly differ from cases found in the review of the literature. CONCLUSIONS Clinicians practicing in endemic areas should be aware of this rare but serious form of histoplasmosis. The recognition of 5 cases of CNS histoplasmosis in AIDS patients from a single institution suggests that histoplasmosis should be included in the differential diagnosis of the CNS complications of AIDS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harita Nyalakonda
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas.
| | - Marisol Albuerne
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas
| | | | - Juan C Sarria
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas
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Hariri OR, Minasian T, Quadri SA, Dyurgerova A, Farr S, Miulli DE, Siddiqi J. Histoplasmosis with Deep CNS Involvement: Case Presentation with Discussion and Literature Review. J Neurol Surg Rep 2015; 76:e167-72. [PMID: 26251798 PMCID: PMC4520962 DOI: 10.1055/s-0035-1554932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2014] [Accepted: 04/06/2015] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Central nervous system (CNS) histoplasmosis is rare and difficult to diagnose because it is often overlooked or mistaken for other pathologies due to its nonspecific symptoms. A 32-year-old Hispanic man with advanced acquired immunodeficiency virus presented with altered mental status and reported confusion for the past 3 months. He had a Glasgow Coma Scale of 12, repetitive nonfluent speech, and a disconjugate gaze with a right gaze preference. Lung computed tomography (CT) findings indicated a pulmonary histoplasmosis infection. Magnetic resonance imaging of the brain revealed a ring-enhancing lesion in the left caudate nucleus. A CT-guided left retroperitoneal node biopsy was performed and indicated a benign inflammatory process with organisms compatible with fungal yeast. Treatment with amphotericin B followed by itraconazole was initiated in spite of negative cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) cultures and proved effective in mitigating associated CNS lesions and resolving neurologic deficits. The patient was discharged 3 weeks later in stable condition. Six weeks later, his left basal ganglia mass decreased. Early recognition of symptoms and proper steps is key in improving outcomes of CNS histoplasmosis. Aggressive medical management is possible in the treatment of intracranial deep mass lesions, and disseminated histoplasmosis with CNS involvement can be appropriately diagnosed and treated, despite negative CSF and serology studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omid R Hariri
- Department of Neurosurgery, Arrowhead Regional Medical Center, Colton, California, United States
| | - Tanya Minasian
- Department of Neurosurgery, Arrowhead Regional Medical Center, Colton, California, United States
| | - Syed A Quadri
- Department of Neurosurgery, Arrowhead Regional Medical Center, Colton, California, United States
| | - Anya Dyurgerova
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, Western University of Health Sciences, Pomona, California, United States
| | - Saman Farr
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, Western University of Health Sciences, Pomona, California, United States
| | - Dan E Miulli
- Department of Neurosurgery, Arrowhead Regional Medical Center, Colton, California, United States
| | - Javed Siddiqi
- Department of Neurosurgery, Arrowhead Regional Medical Center, Colton, California, United States
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Farina C, Rizzi M, Ricci L, Gabbi E, Caligaris S, Goglio A. Imported and autochthonous histoplasmosis in Italy: new cases and old problems. Rev Iberoam Micol 2006; 22:169-71. [PMID: 16309355 DOI: 10.1016/s1130-1406(05)70034-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
In the past the Italian soil was considered as a low-endemic pabulum for H. capsulatum var. capsulatum and only few autochthonous cases of histoplasmosis were reported in Italy, especially in the Po valley. The aim of the paper was to evaluate this possibility by reviewing the literature and providing our own personal data. Four additional cases of histoplasmosis were observed during 1999-2003 in AIDS immigrant or in Italian citizens, and in travellers to endemic areas. One of the AIDS patients was an autochthonous case of histoplasmosis. The Italian literature was reviewed. Recent cases and literature data confirm the possible autochthonous presence of histoplasmosis in Italy, especially in the Northern regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudio Farina
- Unità Operativa Microbiologia e Virologia, Azienda Ospedaliera Ospedali Riuniti di Bergamo, Bergamo, Italy.
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Antinori S, Magni C, Nebuloni M, Parravicini C, Corbellino M, Sollima S, Galimberti L, Ridolfo AL, Wheat LJ. Histoplasmosis among human immunodeficiency virus-infected people in Europe: report of 4 cases and review of the literature. Medicine (Baltimore) 2006; 85:22-36. [PMID: 16523050 DOI: 10.1097/01.md.0000199934.38120.d4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
We reviewed the clinical, microbiologic, and outcome characteristics of 72 patients with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-associated histoplasmosis (4 newly described) reported in Europe over 20 years (1984-2004). Seven cases (9.7%) were acquired in Europe (autochthonous), whereas the majority involved a history of travel or arrival from endemic areas. The diagnosis of progressive disseminated histoplasmosis (PDH) was made during life in 63 patients (87.5%) and was the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS)-presenting illness in 44 (61.1%). Disease was widespread in 66 patients (91.7%) and localized in 6 (8.3%), with the skin being the most frequent site of localized infection. Overall skin involvement was reported in 47.2% of the patients regardless of whether histoplasmosis was acquired in Africa or South America. Reticulonodular or diffuse interstial infiltrates occurred in 52.8%. The diagnosis was made during life by histopathology plus culture in 44 patients (69.8%), histopathology alone in 18 (28.5%), and culture alone in 1 (1.5%). During the induction phase amphotericin B and itraconazole (74.6%) were the single most frequently used drugs. Both drugs were also used either in combination (10.2%) or in sequential therapy (11.8%). Cumulative mortality rate during the induction phase of treatment was 15.2%. Overall, 37 patients died (57.8%); death occurred early in the course in 18 (28.1%). Seven of 40 patients (17.5%) who responded to therapy subsequently relapsed. Autopsy data in 13 patients confirmed the widespread disseminated nature of histoplasmosis (85%) among AIDS patients with a median of 4.5 organs involved. The results of the present report highlight the need to consider the diagnosis of PDH among patients with AIDS in Europe presenting with a febrile illness who have traveled to or who originated from an endemic area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Spinello Antinori
- From Department of Clinical Sciences, Section of Infectious and Tropical Diseases (SA, MC, SS, LG, ALR), University of Milan, Milan; Institute of Pathology (MN, CP), and I Infectious Diseases Unit (CM), Luigi Sacco Hospital, Milan, Italy; and MiraVista Diagnostics (LJW), Indianapolis, Indiana, United States
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Wheat LJ, Musial CE, Jenny-Avital E. Diagnosis and Management of Central Nervous System Histoplasmosis. Clin Infect Dis 2005; 40:844-52. [PMID: 15736018 DOI: 10.1086/427880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 139] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2004] [Accepted: 10/22/2004] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Two cases of Histoplasma meningitis are presented, illustrating the difficulty in diagnosis and treatment. The first case occurred in a patient with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome as a relapse of disseminated histoplasmosis and resolved after prolonged treatment and ongoing antiretroviral therapy. The second case occurred in a cardiac allograft recipient as meningitis and focal brain lesions that responded to liposomal amphotericin B, but the patient died shortly after therapy was completed. Unfortunately, there are no prospective studies addressing the diagnosis and management of patients with histoplasmosis of the central nervous system from which to provide evidence-based guidelines for care. In the absence of such data, an approach will be presented on the basis of our experience and opinions.
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Affiliation(s)
- L J Wheat
- MiraVista Diagnostics, Indianapolis, Indiana 46241, USA.
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Saccente M, McDonnell RW, Baddour LM, Mathis MJ, Bradsher RW. Cerebral histoplasmosis in the azole era: report of four cases and review. South Med J 2003; 96:410-6. [PMID: 12916564 DOI: 10.1097/01.smj.0000051734.53654.d0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
We report four cases of cerebral histoplasmosis and discuss features of six additional cases reported in the medical literature in the past 10 years, when azoles have been available for therapy. Most patients with this disease are immunocompromised or have a history that suggests heavy exposure to Histoplasma capsulatum. Fever and other clinical findings of systemic toxicity caused by disseminated histoplasmosis may be absent; 5 of 10 patients did not manifest these findings. Although the mainstay of treatment for central nervous system histoplasmosis remains amphotericin B, 9 of the 10 patients received itraconazole or fluconazole either as initial therapy or after a course of treatment with amphotericin B.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Saccente
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR 72205, USA.
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Jiang B, Bartlett MS, Allen SD, Smith JW, Wheat LJ, Connolly PA, Lee CH. Typing of Histoplasma capsulatum isolates based on nucleotide sequence variation in the internal transcribed spacer regions of rRNA genes. J Clin Microbiol 2000; 38:241-5. [PMID: 10618094 PMCID: PMC88702 DOI: 10.1128/jcm.38.1.241-245.2000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The nucleotide sequences of internal transcribed spacer (ITS) regions of rRNA genes of 24 isolates of Histoplasma capsulatum were examined. The results indicate that the sequences of ITS regions in different isolates are not identical. Sequence variations were found at 20 positions in the 496 bp that were sequenced. Ten different sequence patterns, designated types A through H, were observed when the sequences from the 24 isolates were aligned. Twelve isolates from Indianapolis were classified into four different types. Two isolates from New York belonged to type G. Three isolates from different cities were type F. The remaining six isolates were of different types.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Jiang
- Department of Pathology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana 46202, USA
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