Cervical and mediastinal abscess as a manifestation of histoplasmosis.

Abstract

Histoplasmosis is the most common endemic respiratory mycosis in the United States. Disseminated histoplasmosis generally is initially seen with systemic or respiratory complaints. Presentation of histoplasmosis as a neck mass is rare. Due to this unusual presentation and the diagnostic implications, we present a case of disseminated histoplasmosis that presented as a neck abscess. Unusual presentations of histoplasmosis may occur even in patients who are not immunocompromised. The diagnosis and management of histoplasmosis is reviewed. Histoplasmosis should be considered in the workup of a cervical abscess even in the immunocompetent host.