Definition:

Paracoccidioidomycosis is a systemic endemic mycosis caused by Paracoccidioides brasiliensis and Paracoccidioides lutzii, exhibiting geographically restricted distribution from southern Mexico to northern Argentina. Its natural habitat is primarily the soil and the infection is caused by intense and continued contact with the soil. It can affect any organ in the body, but it is primarily involved in the lungs and potentially disseminates to other organs, mainly mucosa and skin.