How Histoplasma Evades the Human Immune System.

This review summarises the current knowledge of the interactions between Histoplasma capsulatum (Hc) and the human immune system, with particular emphasis on host immune responses and fungal immune evasion mechanisms that modulate disease pathogenesis and clinical outcomes. Histoplasmosis is a disease caused by Hc, a fungus found worldwide. Upon inhalation, complex interactions occur between the pathogen and the human immune system, primarily involving the recognition of fungal cell wall components. Both innate and adaptive immune responses are orchestrated to eliminate the fungus through a tightly regulated balance. However, Hc has evolved multiple strategies to evade host defences and establish infection. The clinical spectrum of histoplasmosis varies, ranging from isolated pulmonary involvement to disseminated disease, depending on host factors and pathogen characteristics. CONCLUSION: Overall, host-pathogen interactions between Hc and the human immune system play a central role in determining disease outcomes and represent key targets for improving preventive, diagnostic, and treatment strategies.