BAL : Histoplasma capsulatum var. capsulatum (MGG stain x 1000)

A cluster of small yeasts, close to an alveolar macrophage, can be visualized with high magnification [2-3 µm]. Each cell is surrounded by a colorless zone giving a capsule-like appearance, characterizing Histoplasma capsulatum var. capsulatum. Most infections involve pulmonary localisation after air borne contamination.