Short answer · Medically reviewed summary · Last updated: 2026-05-08
Blastomycosis is an infection caused by the fungus Blastomyces dermatitidis, historically and medically referred to by several names including Gilchrist's disease, Chicago disease, and North American blastomycosis. While these synonyms appear in older literature, Blastomycosis is the universally preferred term in modern clinical practice to avoid confusion with other fungal infections. Why does Blastomycosis have multiple names? The variety of names for Blastomycosis stems from its historical discovery and geographic association.
Blastomycosis synonyms
Other names for Blastomycosis: synonyms, acronyms and related terms used by doctors and patients.
Blastomycosis is an infection caused by the fungus Blastomyces dermatitidis, historically and medically referred to by several names including Gilchrist's disease, Chicago disease, and North American blastomycosis. While these synonyms appear in older literature, Blastomycosis is the universally preferred term in modern clinical practice to avoid confusion with other fungal infections.
Why does Blastomycosis have multiple names?
The variety of names for Blastomycosis stems from its historical discovery and geographic association. When first described by Dr. Thomas Caspar Gilchrist in 1894, it was termed "Gilchrist's disease." Because it was initially believed to be localized to the Chicago region and North America, labels like "Chicago disease" and "North American blastomycosis" became common. As our understanding of the fungus grew, these geographic labels were retired to reflect that the disease can occur in other regions, including parts of Africa and the Middle East.
What are the common medical synonyms for Blastomycosis?
In medical records and older textbooks, you may encounter several terms used to describe Blastomycosis. It is important for patients and caregivers to recognize these to ensure accurate communication with their healthcare providers:
- Gilchrist's disease: Named after the physician who first identified the organism.
- Chicago disease: A historical term based on early focal points of reported cases.
- North American blastomycosis: A term used to distinguish it from South American blastomycosis (now known as Paracoccidioidomycosis).
- Blastomycosis (ICD-10 code B40): The current, standardized clinical designation.
How is Blastomycosis classified officially?
In global medical coding, Blastomycosis is recognized under specific identifiers to ensure consistent diagnosis and reporting. Major classification systems categorize it as follows:
- ICD-10: Classified under B40, covering all forms of the infection.
- Orphanet: Listed as ORPHA:101037, recognizing it as a rare infectious disease.
- OMIM: While primarily a database for genetic disorders, clinical descriptions of Blastomycosis exist within related literature databases due to its significant impact on human health.
Next steps
- Consult an infectious disease specialist if you suspect symptoms of Blastomycosis, especially if you have been in wooded areas or near waterways.
- Join the 27 members of the DiseaseMaps.org community to share experiences and find support.
- Ensure your medical records use the term Blastomycosis to prevent confusion with other respiratory conditions.
Medical disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
References
- NIH Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center (GARD)
- Orphanet (ORPHA:101037)
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) - Fungal Diseases
- PubMed/NCBI Bookshelf: Clinical Overview of Systemic Mycoses
