Utility of Fine needle aspiration cytology in the diagnosis of Histoplasmosis- A study of four cases

Histoplasmosis is a non – contagious systemic infection which is caused by a dimorphic fungal organism, Histoplasma capsulatum. In India, West Bengal accounts for the maximum number of cases of histoplasmosis followed by Uttar Pradesh and Delhi. 99%, are restricted to the lungs and are self limiting infections. It mostly affects the immunocompromised patients but may affect the immunocompetent individuals as well.We hereby report a series of 4 cases of Histoplasmosis both in immunocompetent and immunocompromised patients on Fine needle aspiration cytology using May Grunwald Giemsa, Gomori Methenamine Silver and Periodic Acid Schiff stains.Disseminated histoplasmosis,if not treated can be fatal,therefore it is important to timely diagnose it and treat with adequate antifungal drugs. FNAC of lesions along with special stains, can be a promising modality for establishing a rapid diagnosis of histoplasmosis and thereby planning early treatment of the disease. Keywords: Fungal stains, Histoplasmosis.