GEOG103 Lecture Notes - Lecture 13: Coccidioidomycosis, Paracoccidioidomycosis, Histoplasmosis
3 Apr 2018
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Document Summary
Diomorphic fungi two forms; can exist as both a mold/hyphal/filamentous form or as a yeast; they are human pathogens that grow as a mold at room temperature, and as a yeast at human body temperature. Common in late spring, early summer w/ warming and moist temperature/conditions. Occurs normally in northeastern part of us in north america, and pockets in africa/india. Spores become airborne when soil is disturbed where the fungus is growing. Affect cns; cause upper respiratory problems, flu-like symptoms, fevers, chills, etc. Not known to be transmitted from person to persons. Mohabi desert (nevada/california border, death valley), southwest us. Soil; deadly fungus; wind carries it airborne inhaled valley fever flu-like, severe pneumonia, death. Not contagious; # increasing because of prolonged drought. Disease drivers (climate change) looking at cultural use/changes. Higher precipitation areas= greater prevalence; central and western africa. Starts in the lungs; becomes systemic (go throughout the body) in bloodstream, it can be transmitted everywhere.
