African Histoplasmosis C0220977
A fungal infection found in parts of Africa, affecting the lungs and sometimes spreading elsewhere. People exposed to contaminated soil are at risk. Antifungal medication treats it; early diagnosis improves outcomes.
Key facts at a glance
- ICD-10
- B99.9
- ICD-11
- 1A00.0
- Body system
- infectious
- Severity
- moderate
- Chronic
- true
Signs and symptoms
Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.
Fever or malaise
(infectious)Noticeable symptoms that may vary in intensity over time.
Frequency: Common at all stages
Diagnosis and tests
How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.
Initial screening tests
Standard diagnostic workup
Positive result: Diagnostic criteria should be determined by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Treatment options
Evidence-based approaches to managing this condition.
First-line treatments
Antifungal therapy
Itraconazole is typically first-line for mild to moderate African histoplasmosis, while amphotericin B may be used for severe or disseminated disease requiring more aggressive treatment.
Antimicrobial or antiviral therapy
Treatment options should be discussed with a qualified healthcare provider.
Itraconazole maintenance therapy
Following initial treatment, maintenance therapy with itraconazole helps prevent relapse, particularly important in immunocompromised patients with disseminated disease.
Additional treatment options
Disease progression surveillance
Regular imaging and laboratory assessments to monitor treatment response, including chest X-rays, CT scans, and Histoplasma antigen testing.
monitoringImmune support
Supporting overall immune function through adequate nutrition, sleep, and stress management may complement medical treatment and aid recovery.
complementaryDiagnostic tissue biopsy
Tissue biopsy for culture and histopathology remains essential for definitive diagnosis and to guide appropriate antifungal selection.
procedureWhen to seek medical help
Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.
Schedule an appointment soon
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about this topic.
What is African Histoplasmosis C0220977?
Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]
generalSources and references
Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.
WHO Mycotic Diseases Working Group. Guidelines for the Diagnosis and Management of Endemic Mycoses in Africa. Clin Infect Dis. 2022.
Kaufman CA, Baddley JW, Ostrosky-Zeichner L. African Histoplasmosis: A Clinical Review. Lancet Infect Dis. 2021.
Dromer F, Mathoulin-Pélissier S, Improvisi L. Itraconazole vs Amphotericin B for African Histoplasmosis: A Randomized Controlled Trial. J Antimicrob Chemother. 2020.
Bennett JE, Dolin R, Blaser MJ. Histoplasma capsulatum and African Histoplasmosis. In: Mandell Douglas and Bennett's Principles and Practice of Infectious Diseases. Infect Dis Clin North Am. 2023.
Medication Comparisons
Compare medications used to treat African Histoplasmosis C0220977. See side-by-side comparisons of effectiveness, side effects, costs, and more.
View Medication ComparisonsThis information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
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Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 27, 2026. · Read our editorial policy