B38

Coccidioidomycosis

A fungal infection caused by coccidioides immitis. Affected individuals usually have mild flu-like symptoms. However, pneumonia and systemic involvement with the formation of abscesses may develop as complications of the disease.

Infection with a fungus of the genus coccidioides, endemic to the southwestern United States. It is sometimes called valley fever but should not be confused with rift valley fever. Infection is caused by inhalation of airborne, fungal particles known as arthroconidia, a form of fungal spores. A primary form is an acute, benign, self-limited respiratory infection. A secondary form is a virulent, severe, chronic, progressive granulomatous disease with systemic involvement. It can be detected by use of coccidioidin.

Infection with a fungus of the genus coccidioides, species c. Immitis; primary form is an acute, benign, self limited respiratory infection due to inhalation of spores and varying in severity; secondary form is a virulent, severe, chronic, progressive granulomatous disease with systemic involvement.

Valley fever is a disease caused by a fungus or mold) called coccidioides. The fungi live in the soil of dry areas like the southwestern United States Anyone exposed to the fungus can get the infection. The highest risk is for people whose jobs expose them to soil dust. These include construction workers, agricultural workers, and military forces doing field training. The infection cannot spread from person to person.valley fever is often mild, with no symptoms. If you have symptoms, they may include a flu-like illness, with fever, cough, headache, rash and muscle aches. Most people get better within several weeks or months. A small number of people may develop a chronic lung or widespread infection.valley fever is diagnosed by testing your blood, other body fluids, or tissues. Many people with the acute infection get better without treatment. In some cases, doctors may prescribe antifungal drugs for acute infections. Severe infections require antifungal drugs. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.