Emmonsiosis

Emmonsiosis is a rare and emerging systemic mycosis caused by fungi in the genus Emmonsia. The disease is characterized by the formation of granulomas in the lungs and other organs. It is primarily found in immunocompromised individuals, particularly those with HIV/AIDS, but can also occur in immunocompetent individuals.

Etiology

Emmonsiosis is caused by two species of Emmonsia fungi: Emmonsia crescens and Emmonsia parva. These fungi are typically found in soil and are inhaled into the lungs, where they can cause infection.

Clinical Presentation

The symptoms of emmonsiosis are non-specific and can include fever, cough, weight loss, and fatigue. In severe cases, the disease can spread to other organs and cause disseminated disease, which can be fatal.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of emmonsiosis is challenging due to the rarity of the disease and the non-specific symptoms. It is typically diagnosed through histopathology of lung tissue, which shows the characteristic granulomas. Culture of the fungi from clinical specimens can also be used for diagnosis, but this is often difficult due to the slow growth of the fungi.

Treatment

Treatment of emmonsiosis typically involves long-term antifungal therapy with drugs such as itraconazole or amphotericin B. In severe cases, surgical removal of affected lung tissue may be necessary.

Epidemiology

Emmonsiosis is a rare disease, with most cases reported in South Africa, but it has also been reported in other parts of the world, including North America and Europe. The disease is more common in individuals with compromised immune systems, particularly those with HIV/AIDS.

See Also

• Mycosis
• Granuloma
• HIV/AIDS

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