Molecular identification of Histoplasma capsulatum in patients with disseminated histoplasmosis and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome.
An Acad Bras Cienc
; 96(suppl 1): e20231287, 2024.
Article
in En
| MEDLINE
| ID: mdl-39258695
ABSTRACT
Histoplasmosis is caused by the fungus Histoplasma capsulatum and is often fatal for individuals with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Delayed diagnosis is a major factor in worsening coinfection, as it can be mistaken for other diseases. Thus, rapid identification of Histoplasma in immunocompromised patients is essential. Molecular techniques, particularly polymerase chain reaction (PCR), were used in this study to identify H. capsulatum in patients coinfected with histoplasmosis and AIDS. Blood samples from 14 individuals with AIDS and disseminated histoplasmosis were collected and analyzed. The PCR method successfully amplified the fungal region in whole blood samples, while PCR-RFLP analysis confirmed a consistent profile in the samples. Genetic sequencing further confirmed the fungal species. Compared to clinical tests such as fungal culture and urinary antigen detection, molecular analysis proved faster, more sensitive, and cost-effective. These molecular markers can potentially be incorporated into routine diagnostics in the future. Further studies are needed to expand and enhance this diagnostic approach, particularly in patients with nonprogressive clinical forms of histoplasmosis.
Full text:
1
Collection:
01-internacional
Database:
MEDLINE
Main subject:
Polymerase Chain Reaction
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AIDS-Related Opportunistic Infections
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Histoplasma
/
Histoplasmosis
Limits:
Adult
/
Female
/
Humans
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Male
/
Middle aged
Language:
En
Journal:
An Acad Bras Cienc
Year:
2024
Document type:
Article
Affiliation country:
Brazil
Country of publication:
Brazil