The fine structure of the microconidium of Blastomyces dermatitidis.

Abstract

Aspects of the fine structure of the microconidium of the mycelial phase of the dimorphic fungal pathogenBlastomyces dermatitidis as seen by techniques of scanning and transmission electron microscopy are described and illustrated by electron micrographs. The conidia ofB. dermatitidis undergo changes in the ultrastructural appearance of the cell wall as the spore matures. The cell wall becomes irregular in its thickness and possesses two distinct layers. No discrete or unique surface spines or projections were evident when the conidium ofB. dermatitidis was viewed by scanning electron microscopy. Upon maturity there is a marked deposition of lipid material in large, multiple storage bodies which occupy much of the cytoplasmic area. However, the cytoplasmic organelles appear to retain their structural integrity.