It was back when the US singer was about to embark on the British leg of his never-ending tour that fans became concerned for his health. Soon after celebrating his 56th birthday, Dylan started to complain of chest pains. The pain became so unbearable that the singer was admitted to hospital where he was diagnosed with a rare condition known as histoplasmosis. With symptoms similar to tuberculosis, the star was forced to cancel his tour of the UK and stayed in hospital to receive urgent treatment.

At the time, the star’s agent Barry Dickins confirmed that the singer had been admitted to hospital in the US, and was waiting to speak to doctors about the outlook of the condition.

Dickins’ statement said: “It was his birthday at the weekend and he complained of chest pains.

“He went to hospital where he was admitted for treatment. In the 10 years I have represented him he has never complained about chest pains once.

“The infection is potentially fatal. He will remain at the hospital until his condition is stable and he has improved.”

A few weeks later, another update on Dylan’s health emerged, where the singer admitted he was in fear for his life.

A fixed statement concerned the star’s health said: “Doctors are continuing to treat him and are confident that Mr Dylan will make a full recovery in four to six weeks.”

At the time Dylan himself was reported saying: “I’m just glad to be feeling better.

“I really thought I’d be seeing Elvis soon.”

In the updated statement it was also revealed that the star’s condition had developed into a potentially serious condition known as pericarditis after first contracting histoplasmosis.

Histoplasmosis is an infection caused by a fungus called Histoplasma. Individuals can become infected after breathing in the microscopic fungal spores from the air.

Unusually, the condition is most often found in bird or bat droppings and puts farmers and landscapers at higher risk of the disease.