Blastomycosis is a fungal infection caused by the dimorphic fungus Blastomyces dermatitidis. It primarily affects the respiratory system but can spread to other organs. The fungus exists as molds in the environment that can be inhaled, transforming into yeasts that cause infection inside the body. Symptoms vary depending on the infected site but commonly include fever, cough, fatigue, and skin lesions. Treatment involves antifungal medications for several months. Prevention strategies include hygiene practices, protective equipment, environmental controls, and education.

1. BLASTOMYCOSIS
PRESENTED BY: FATIMA ZAHIR (70121228)
SANIA RAZZAQ(70133969)

2. INTODUCTION
BLASTOMYCOSIS:
Blastomycosis is a chronic granulomatous and supportive disease having a primary pulmonary stage
that is frequently followed by dissemination to other body sites, chiefly the skin and the bone.
Although the disease was long thought to be restricted to the north American continent. In recent
years cases have been diagnosed in Africa,Asia and Europe .

4. GENERAL CHARACTERISTICS
 Blastomocosis is caused by dimorphic fungus called
blastomyces dermatitidus.
 Dimorphic fungi exist in two different morphological
forms depending upon the environmental conditions
according to the temperature.
 Mold-like at 25 C- Branched hyphae are present.
 Yeasts-like at 37 C- Broad based yeast buds are
present.
 It is also called as Gilchrist`s disease which can
spread to brain, stomach, intestine and skin, where it
is appears as crusting purplish plaque with a
roundish bumpy edge and central depression.

7. BLASTOMYCES DERMATITIDUS
 Blastomycosis dermatitidis, commonly known as blastomycosis, is a fungal infection caused by the
dimorphic fungus Blastomyces dermatitidis.
 Transmission: Blastomyces dermatitidis is found in the environment, particularly in moist soil
enriched with decomposing organic material.The fungus can be inhaled when contaminated soil or
decaying organic matter is disturbed, leading to infection.
 Clinical Presentation: Blastomycosis primarily affects the respiratory system but can also spread to
other organs, causing a systemic infection.The symptoms vary depending on the site of infection but
commonly include fever, cough, chest pain, muscle aches, fatigue, and weight loss. In severe cases, it can
lead to skin lesions, bone involvement, and infection of the central nervous system in humans and
animals.

9. VIRULENCE FACTORS
 Thermal dimorphism
 Antiphagocytic factors
 Melanin production
 Toxin production
 Adhesion factors

11. SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS IN ANIMALS
 Respiratory signs:
Coughing
Difficulty breathing
Increased respiratory rate
 Lethargy and treatment:
Decreased energy
levels
 Loss of appetite and weight loss
 Fever
 Skin lesions
 Enlarge lymph nodes

15. TREATMENT
 BlastomycosisTreatment:Antifungal medications,
such as itraconazole or fluconazole, are commonly
used
 Severe Cases: Intravenous administration of
amphotericin B may be necessary.
 Alternative Options: Posaconazole can be
considered when other antifungal agents are ineffective
or not tolerated.
 Duration ofTreatment:Treatment duration varies
but can be several months, up to 6-12 months in some
cases.

16. PREVENTION
 Hygiene Practices: Implementing thorough hygiene measures, including regular
handwashing, proper sanitation of surfaces, and maintaining clean and well-
ventilated environments, to minimize the risk of basidiomycete infections.
 Personal Protective Measures: Encouraging the use of personal protective
equipment (PPE) such as gloves, masks, and gowns when handling potentially
contaminated materials or working in high-risk areas, reducing the exposure to
basidiomycetes.
 Environmental Controls: Implementing strategies to control and limit the
growth of basidiomycetes in various settings, such as improving ventilation
systems, reducing humidity levels, and promptly addressing water leaks or
moisture issues.
 Education and Awareness: Raising awareness among the general public,
healthcare professionals, and workers in agricultural or industrial sectors about
basidiomycete infections, their transmission routes, and preventive measures,
promoting early recognition and appropriate action.

17. THANKYOU