Histoplasmosis | Spelunker’s Lung | Caver’s Disease: Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Which doctor should I consult?

A: Physicians who are qualified in General Medicine can treat the disease. Sometimes, the help of Infectious Disease specialists may be required

Q: What is ocular histoplasmosis?

A: Ocular Histoplasmosis is a disease caused by the spread of Histoplasma capsulatum to the eyes. It can cause defective vision in later stages.

Q: Is histoplasmosis treatable?

A: Histoplasmosis is a treatable disease, but it might cause complications even if completely cured. Ocular Histoplasmosis is treatable but not curable.

Q: Can Histoplasmosis be life threatening?

A: Yes in severe cases and immuno-compromised this is a possibility. In the patients who are hospitalized for histoplasmosis in the U.S., a study estimated the crude mortality rate to be approximately 5% for children and 8% for adults.