Blastomyces uses the soil as a reservoir, and fungal spores can be inhaled from disturbed soil.

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Blastomycosis is a rare disease caused by *Blastomyces dermatitidis.*

Blastomycosis

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Blastomycosis generally causes mild flu-like symptoms and is self-limiting. In immunocompromised people it may lead to chronic cutaneous disease with subcutaneous lesions on the face and hands. These skin lesions eventually become crusty and discolored and can result in deforming scars. Systemic blastomycosis is rare, but if left untreated, it is always fatal.

Signs and Symptoms of Blastomycosis

Transmission of Blastomyces

Diagnosis of blastomycosis can be made by observing the characteristic budding yeast forms in sputum samples. Commercially available urine antigen tests are now also available. Additional confirmatory tests include serological assays such as immunodiffusion tests or EIA.

Diagnosis of Blastomycosis

Most cases of blastomycosis respond well to amphotericin B or ketoconazole treatments.

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