What is the infective form of dimorphic fungi for laboratory workers?

The infective form of dimorphic fungi for laboratory workers is primarily the hyphal form. Dimorphic fungi can exist in two forms: a yeast form and a mold (hyphal) form, depending on the temperature and environmental conditions. Typically, these fungi are yeast at body temperature (37 degrees Celsius) and grow as molds at room temperature (25 degrees Celsius).

In a laboratory setting, exposure to the hyphal form is particularly concerning because it is often the more pathogenic and airborne stage of the fungi, capable of producing spores that can be inhaled. This is a significant risk for laboratory workers who handle cultures or samples, as these spores can lead to respiratory infections or other systemic diseases if inhaled.

While the yeast form is present in the body and can also cause infections, it is generally less of a concern for lab workers who are more likely to encounter the molds, especially when they're working with cultures. For these reasons, focusing on the hyphal form provides a clear understanding of the risks involved in laboratory procedures when dealing with dimorphic fungi.