FUNGAL PNEUMONIA

TYPES

There are many distinct forms, and while the symptoms of each often present similarly, there is some overlap across the forms. Different types of pneumonia are distinguished by the fungus that is responsible for causing the infection.

• Aspergillosis
• Cryptococcus
• Histoplasmosis 
• Pneumocystis Pneumonia
• Valley Fever 

SYMPTOMS

The diagnosis of fungal pneumonia and the appropriate therapy administration may be delayed because the most prevalent symptoms are comparable to those of lung infections caused by viruses or bacteria. 

Specifically, these symptoms are:

• Chills
• Coughing up colorful phlegm
• Coughing or breathing difficulties
• Diarrhea
• Fever
• Vomiting or nausea

Age can influence the kind and intensity of symptoms in patients with fungal pneumonia, such as:

• In older adults, symptoms are typically mild, but the condition can cause mental confusion, which requires immediate medical attention.
• Infants and toddlers with the syndrome may have feeding issues, pale complexion, breathing difficulties (grunts or rattles when living), a limp look, decreased urine output, and fussiness.

DIAGNOSIS

Fungal pneumonia is challenging since it resembles other diseases. Many people delay medical care because they have a cold or flu. Mucus and lung fluid cultures are also needed to determine the specific etiology.

The following tests are used to make a diagnosis:

• Blood culture
• Blood testing
• Chest X-ray
• Evaluation
• Pulse oximetry

In extreme circumstances, further testing may be required, such as:

• Bronchoscopy
• Chest computerized tomography (CT) scan
• Pleural fluid culture
• Sputum test

TREATMENT

Antifungal medicines are used to treat fungal pneumonia. Dosages and administration methods differ depending on the particular instance and kind of illness. Among the medications mentioned are:

• Amphotericin B injection
• Echinocandins
• Fluconazole
• Itraconazole
• Other triazoles
• Trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole

In extreme situations, you may prescribe oxygen treatment and breathing exercises to release mucus and strengthen the lungs. In most cases, therapy for fungal pneumonia might extend up to a year.