Vegetarianism in any of its various forms, particularly veganism, has been increasing in popularity over the past few years, especially among the young population in the United States. While several studies have shown that a vegan diet (VD) decreases the risk of cardiometabolic diseases, such as cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes mellitus, obesity, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, veganism has been associated with adverse health outcomes, namely, nervous, skeletal, and immune system impairments, hematological disorders, as well as mental health problems due to the potential for micro and macronutrient deficits. The goal of this review article is to discuss the current literature on the impact and long-term consequences of veganism on vulnerable populations, including children, adolescents, pregnant and breastfeeding women, and fetal outcomes in strict vegan mothers. It also focuses on the many deficiencies of the vegan diet, especially vitamin B12, and the related increased risk of malignancies.

Histoplasmosis is a common mycosis in North and Central America caused by Histoplasma capsulatum. Affected patients typically remain asymptomatic. However, in some individuals, histoplasmosis can present as a severe illness, usually occurring in patients with underlying risk factors such as the immunocompromised (e.g., acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), treatment with immunosuppressive agents), and the elderly without underlying immunocompromised conditions. Here, we present a case of disseminated histoplasmosis diagnosed as an incidental finding on bone marrow biopsy while treating a hospitalized patient for hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis. The patient presented with weight loss, anorexia, fatigue, and generalized weakness. The patient was successfully treated with amphotericin B and eventually transitioned to itraconazole.

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