Blastomycoisis is a masquerador of not only malignancies (lung) but also of community acquired pneumonia. This article deals briefly with the clinical features and laboratory diagnosis of this great mimic. 1. Blastomycosis usually caused by Blastomyces dermatidis is a dimorphic form(exists in mycelial form as well as a yeast like organism{YLO}). 2. It is endemic in USA especially around the Great Lakes.In recent years it has been increasingly reported in the Indian Subcontinent 3. Immunocompromised are at a greater risk..
4. Spreads by inhalation of spores. 5. Pulmonary involvement by Blastomycosis can take several forms. 1.Acute Pulmonary Blastomycosisis either an asymptomatic or symptomatic but self limited illness. i)Symptomatic patients present with abrupt onset of cough,high fever,dyspnea,chest pain,weight loss ,chest pain and night sweats.Clinical spectrum varies from…
