Histoplasmosis of the larynx

Abstract

Granulomatous diseases caused by infectious agents are being seen more frequently than before. Infection with Histoplasma capsulatum is one such granulomatous disease. This condition may have protean manifestations, with involvement of the larynx of particular interest to the Otolaryngologist. Histoplasmosis of the larynx may present difficult diagnostic problems and may closely mimic carcinoma. A case of histoplasmosis of the larynx treated at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center is presented and used to highlight the mode of presentation and the management of this particular disease. The clinical presentation of histoplasmosis is discussed with emphasis on involvement of the upper aerodigestive tract. The diagnostic tests of practical value are outlined. Amphotericin B is the treatment for this disease entity.