Marshfield Clinic Starts Genetic Study into Blastomycosis
Friday, February 24th, 2017 -- 8:07 AM
(WDLB) -Marshfield Clinic has started a new genetic study to see what causes the severity of blastomycosis.Researcher and pediatrician Dr. Holly Frost says blastomycosis is a fungus found in moist soil areas, like northern Wisconsin. When people inhale the fungus, she says it can cause either a severe lung disease or the fungus can actually move to different parts of the body. It could cause infection in the brain, abdomen, or in the bones. Dr. Frost says all they need is a blood sample from those willing to participate in the study.
She says they’re enrolling about 350 patients who have had blastomycosis, and they’re asking that the patients will allow the clinic to collect blood samples from them, so they can be analyzed to look for genetic factors that might determine if the patient has severe disease. Because of the moist soil found in much of the area, the Great Lakes region sees more blastomycosis cases compared to anywhere else in the world. Dr. Frost says they're hopeful to complete the study and be able to present their findings within 1-2 years. If you've had blastomycosis and are interested in participating in the study you can call 715-221-6445.
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