Coccidioidomycosis

Definition

Coccidioidomycosis, also known as Valley Fever, is a fungal infection caused by Coccidioides species. It primarily affects the lungs and can cause flu-like symptoms.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Coccidioidomycosis is endemic to the Southwestern United States, parts of Mexico, and Central and South America.
2. The disease is transmitted through inhalation of airborne arthroconidia from soil-dwelling fungi.
3. Symptoms can range from mild respiratory issues to severe disseminated infections affecting multiple organs.
4. Diagnosis is often confirmed through serological tests detecting specific antibodies or cultures of clinical specimens.
5. Antifungal drugs such as fluconazole or itraconazole are commonly used for treatment, particularly for severe cases.

Review Questions

• What organism causes coccidioidomycosis and how is it transmitted?
• Describe the typical geographic distribution where coccidioidomycosis is endemic.
• What are common diagnostic methods for confirming coccidioidomycosis?

Related terms

Antifungal Drugs: Medications used to treat fungal infections by targeting various aspects of fungal cell biology.

Histoplasmosis: A respiratory mycosis caused by Histoplasma capsulatum, often found in bird or bat droppings.

Cryptococcosis: A fungal infection caused by Cryptococcus neoformans, primarily affecting immunocompromised individuals.