A brief history and discussion of certain mycotic infections and their importance to physicians.

Mycotic infections are common and their incidence is increasing. They can be difficult to distinguish from other infections, particularly tuberculosis, but there are numerous clinical clues that can help suggest the presence of systemic mycoses. Histoplasma skin tests, serologic tests, and agent isolation can aid in the confirmation of a fungal infection. Clinical considerations must be put in the proper perspective before a definitive treatment is proposed. Specific chemotherapy is often curative.