Fungus is a primitive type of vegetable, similar to a mushroom, according to the National Institutes of Health. Fungi are found in most environments. Some are harmful to humans, and some are innocuous. Often, fungi live as tiny spores that can be inhaled by humans leading to infection through the skin or lungs. Some fungal infections can become systemic and can be difficult to treat. There are some types of fungal infections that are more common in people with compromised immune systems, such as those with AIDS, the elderly, the young, or those who have taken antibiotics, but some infections, such as "athletes foot" are very common in most populations. Many different infections may result because of a fungus.
Pneumonia
Pneumonia is an infection of the lungs that causes difficulty breathing, shortness of breath, chest pain, cough and fever. Usually pneumonia is caused by bacteria or virus, but it can be caused by a variety of different fungal infections. According to pneumoniasymptoms.org, fungal pneumonia is rare but important because it often presents much like viral or bacterial pneumonia and must be diagnosed in order to treat it correctly.
Meningitis
Meningitis is an inflammation of the membranes that cover the brain and the cerebrospinal fluid. Symptoms of meningitis include a stiff neck, a headache, and a fever. Usually meningitis is caused by a virus, according to Mayo Clinic, but a fungus can lead to a meningitis infection. The fungal form of meningitis is rare, but can occur in immuno-compromised individuals and can be deadly if not treated appropriately with antifungal medication.
Sporotrichosis
Sporotrichosis is a chronic skin infection that occurs often in warm, tropical climates and is usually disseminated through spores in the soil. According to innvista.com, sporotrichosis is the most common subcutaneous version of fungal infection worldwide. It usually causes ulcers and abscesses at the site of infection which can then spread along lymphatic pathways to infect bones, muscles, nerves and organs. Often, the infection is caught by those who spend a lot of time with soil, such as gardeners and farmers. Antifungal medication can be effective in treating sporotrichosis.
Candidiasis
Candida is a fungus that is normally found in the human digestive tract, mouth and genital region, according to lifeextension.org. It is usually kept under control by beneficial bacteria, but in individuals who take antibiotics or others who have compromised immune systems, the balance can be disrupted and Candida can grow out of control, causing infection. Oral thrush is a Candida infection in the mouth that causes white patches on the tongue or inside of the cheek. Most women will experience a Candida infection of the vagina (yeast infection) at some point in their lives. Candida can also infect the nails and skin in many common situations.
Athlete's Foot
Athlete's foot, also called tinia pedis, is a very common fungal infection that occurs around the toes and other areas of the foot causing itchiness, stinging and cracking of the skin between the toes and on the soles of the feet. This fungus likes moisture and is contagious. It can be passed from human to human or through object to human contact.
