This is speculative, but given that our Grotto includes many experienced, globe-trotting cavers, it would not surprise me if histoplasmin skin tests show that most of us have been exposed to Histoplasma. I will not frighten you by giving detailed descriptions of the more serious, even fatal forms of histoplasmosis. Adverse sequelae include damage to the lungs and eyes, and dissemination into other organs. One man I know lost his eyesight to the point where he could no longer drive an automobile. The cause was not entirely clear, but damage to his retinas appeared to be related to his well-documented histoplasmosis.
Diagnosis is by direct culture of the organism from the patient's tissues, sputum, or urine.
Chest x-rays and studies of circulating antibodies are often helpful, as well. Valley Fever is relatively abundant here in Arizona, especially among desert dwellers. If indicated, a physician might prescribe oral itraconazole, or, in more serious cases, intravenous Amphotericin B. Both have been shown to be effective in treating histoplasmosis, and, as with all drugs, both have side effects, especially Amphotericin B. New therapies are under development. America's leading authority on public-health issues arising from histoplasmosis is the National Center for Infectious Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia. Absolutely no rights of distribution by sale or other transfer of ownership or by rental, lease or lending, preparation of derivative works, or reproduction, in whole or in part, is granted.