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Fungus

A fungus is an organism that can grow on living and nonliving things. Fungi (the plural of fungus) include many types of organisms including yeasts, mold, and mushrooms. Fungi that cause problems for people include yeasts and molds and other types of fungi.

In some situations, fungi can infect and damage tissue, such as skin, hair, or nails. Fungi also may be involved in infections throughout the body, such as in the central nervous system or the bloodstream.

By Healthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Alexander H. Murray, MD, FRCPC - Dermatology
Last Revised July 20, 2010

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: July 20, 2010
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.