Which fungal infection is associated with dacryoadenitis?

Dacryoadenitis, which is the inflammation of the lacrimal gland, can be caused by various infectious agents, among which fungal infections are noteworthy. In particular, blastomycosis is a systemic fungal infection caused by the fungus Blastomyces dermatitidis. This organism typically infects the lungs but can disseminate to other parts of the body, including the eyes, leading to conditions such as dacryoadenitis.

The connection between blastomycosis and dacryoadenitis lies in the fungus's ability to spread and cause inflammatory reactions in the lacrimal glands. This can result in symptoms such as swelling, pain, and discharge associated with the inflammation of the gland. The identification of an underlying fungal infection in this context is crucial for appropriate treatment, which often involves antifungal therapy.

In this scenario, other options, like Treponema pallidum, Mycobacterium leprae, and Neisseria gonorrhoeae, are not typically associated with dacryoadenitis. Treponema pallidum is responsible for syphilis, Mycobacterium leprae causes leprosy, and Neisseria gonorrhoeae is known for gonorrhea, none of which are