Image of Histoplasma capsulatum Darling 1906

Description:

At a magnification of 1125X, this photomicrograph revealed some of the ultrastructural morphology exhibited by a Histoplasma capsulatum fungal macroconidium. The reproductive spores produced by H. capsulatum can be either macroconidia or microconidia. It is the macroconidia that exhibits finger-like projections from its surface, whereas, the microconidia are much smaller, round, and possess a smooth surface. See PHIL 299 for a depiction of both macro- and microconidia.

What is histoplasmosis?

Histoplasmosis is a disease caused by the fungus Histoplasma capsulatum. Its symptoms vary greatly, but the disease primarily affect the lungs. Occasionally, other organs are affected. This form of the disease is called disseminated histoplasmosis, and it can be fatal if untreated.
Created: 1973