What are the potential severe outcomes of untreated histoplasmosis?

The potential severe outcomes of untreated histoplasmosis primarily involve chronic respiratory issues and lung damage. Histoplasmosis is a fungal infection caused by inhaling spores of the Histoplasma capsulatum fungus, which is commonly found in soil enriched with bird or bat droppings. When not properly treated, the infection can lead to severe pulmonary complications, particularly in individuals with weakened immune systems or existing respiratory conditions.

Over time, untreated histoplasmosis can cause chronic pulmonary symptoms such as cough, chest pain, and shortness of breath due to progressive lung damage that may include scarring of lung tissue and the development of nodules or other serious respiratory conditions. This can severely impact an individual’s quality of life and overall health.

Liver failure and kidney damage, neurological deficits and paralysis, or septic shock and skin infections are not typical outcomes associated with histoplasmosis, as the disease primarily affects the lungs and can lead to respiratory issues if left untreated.