WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: What is histoplasmosis? Histoplasmosis is a fungal infection of your child's lungs. It is caused by breathing in soil that is infected with fungus. The fungus is most common in soil that contains bird and bat droppings. What increases my risk for histoplasmosis? Your child is at risk for histoplasmosis if he or she has a condition that weakens the immune system. Your child may be at risk for histoplasmosis if he or she lives in areas where the fungus is common. This includes the Ohio, Mississippi, and Missouri river valleys. Your child's risk for histoplasmosis may also increase if he or she plays in soil near chicken coops or bird nests. What are the signs and symptoms of histoplasmosis? Most children do not have signs or symptoms. A mild infection may cause fever, chills, muscle aches, or fatigue. Your child may also have headaches, chest pain, and a dry cough. Symptoms may last 2 weeks to 4 weeks. A severe infection may cause any of the following: - A cough with bloody or thick yellow sputum
- Night sweats
- Shortness of breath
- A rash
- Weight loss or poor feeding in infants
How is histoplasmosis diagnosed? - Blood and urine tests will show if your child has a histoplasmosis infection. Blood tests may also be done to check your child's blood cell levels and get information about his or her overall health.
- A sputum sample may be collected and tested for the germ that is causing your illness.
How is histoplasmosis treated? Most children do not need treatment for histoplasmosis. Your child may need medicine to decrease fever, pain, or swelling. Your child may need antifungal medicine if the infection is serious or he or she has a weak immune system. If your child's infection is severe he or she may need monitoring and treatment in the hospital. What are the risks of histoplasmosis? Histoplasmosis may be more serious in children less than 1 year. The infection may cause serious breathing problems. It may also spread to other places in your child's body. How do I prevent another histoplasmosis infection? Keep your child away from places where the fungus grows. This includes caves, barns, chicken coops, and under bridges. It also includes chimneys and attics. If your child has a weak immune system, he or she may need to take antifungal medicine to prevent another infection. Call 911 for any of the following: - Your child has a seizure.
- Your child has trouble breathing.
When should I seek immediate care? - Your child is confused.
- Your child coughs up blood or thick, yellow, sputum.
- Your child's heart is beating faster than usual.
- Your child has a severe headache and a stiff neck.
When should I contact my child's healthcare provider? - Your child's symptoms get worse or do not get better in 2 weeks.
- Your child has a rash.
- You have questions or concerns about your child's condition or care.
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