BLASTOMYCETES Meaning and
Definition
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Blastomycetes, also known as Blastomyces, is a group of fungi belonging to the phylum Ascomycota. These fungi are characterized by their ability to produce asexual or sexual spores, which are involved in their reproduction and dispersal. Blastomycetes are further classified into various genera, including Blastomyces, Paracoccidioides, and Histoplasma.
These fungi are typically found in soil and are commonly associated with causing infectious diseases in humans and animals. Blastomycetes are known as dimorphic fungi since they can exist in two different forms: a mold form in the environment and a yeast form within the host. The mold form produces spores, which, when inhaled by humans or animals, can enter the respiratory system and cause a range of respiratory and systemic infections.
Infections caused by Blastomycetes can vary in severity, ranging from mild flu-like symptoms to severe pneumonia or disseminated infections affecting multiple organs. The geographical distribution of blastomycosis, the disease caused by Blastomyces, is primarily concentrated in North America, especially in regions with high levels of soil humidity and organic matter.
Accurate diagnosis of blastomycosis is crucial for timely treatment, as delayed diagnosis can lead to severe complications or even death. Antifungal medications are commonly prescribed to treat blastomycosis, but in severe cases, additional interventions like surgery may be required.
Overall, blastomycetes are a group of fungi that thrive in soil and can cause infections in humans and animals, requiring prompt treatment and management to prevent complications.
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Saccharomycetes, yeasts, budding fungi; see saccharomyces.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for BLASTOMYCETES
- blastomycese
- blastomyces
- vlastomycetes
- nlastomycetes
- hlastomycetes
- glastomycetes
- bkastomycetes
- bpastomycetes
- boastomycetes
- blzstomycetes
- blsstomycetes
- blwstomycetes
- blqstomycetes
- blaatomycetes
- blaztomycetes
- blaxtomycetes
- bladtomycetes
- blaetomycetes
- blawtomycetes
- blasromycetes
Etymology of BLASTOMYCETES
The word "blastomycetes" has a Greek origin. It is composed of two parts: "blastos" and "mykes". "Blastos" (βλαστός) means "bud" or "sprout" in Greek, while "mykes" (μύκης) refers to "fungus" or "mushroom". Therefore, "blastomycetes" can be understood as "bud-like fungus" or "fungus that sprouts".
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