Blastomycosis

Gilchrist 1894-96 (depending on source)

North American blastomycosis, Chicago disease, Gilchrist's disease.

Systemic mycosis caused by the dimorphic fungus, Blastomyces dermatitids.

• America (entire continent), parts of Africa
• Mainly adult males are affected

• Pathogen: Blastomyces dermatitidis
• The pathogen is found in the soil. Pulmonary inoculation occurs via the air. Haematogenous spread leads to the involvement of other organs (skin, prostate, bone)

Arcillated, erythematous, partly ulcerative, partly crusty papules, papulopustules and nodules. Centrally localised, black, punctate papillary vessels, peripherally miliary abscesses.

• clinic
• Detection of pathogens by myco. smear and biopsy

Hands, feet, face and torso.

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