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Alternative names Return to top
Systemic coccidioidomycosisDefinition Return to top
Coccidioidomycosis is a a disease caused by breathing in a fungus (Coccidioides immitis) found in the soil in certain parts of the southwestern U.S., Mexico, and Central and South America. It spreads through the bloodstream to involve many organs.Causes, incidence, and risk factors Return to top
Coccidioidomycosis is caused by breathing in the spores of a fungus in desert regions. About 60% of acute infections cause no symptoms and are only recognized by a positive coccidioidin skin test. In the remaining 40%, symptoms range from mild to severe.
In disseminated disease, extension of infection to the bones, lungs, liver, meninges, brain, skin, heart, and pericardium (sac around the heart) may take place.
Meningitis occurs in 30-50% of cases of disseminated disease. Immunodeficient (immunosuppressed) people, including those with HIV infection, diabetics, and pregnant women of any race are more prone to the disease. Recent travel to or residence in southwestern deserts of the U.S. is a risk factor.
Symptoms Return to top
Additional symptoms that may be associated with this disease:
Signs and tests Return to top
Treatment Return to top
Bed rest and supportive treatment, especially improved nutrition, are indicated. Antifungal medications are prescribed to treat the infection.
Expectations (prognosis) Return to top
People with disseminated disease have a high death rate. The course may be rapid for immunosuppressed patients.
Complications Return to top
This can be a fatal disorder.
Calling your health care provider Return to top
Call for an appointment with your health care provider if symptoms of disseminated coccidioidomycosis develop.
Prevention Return to top
General maintenance of good health will limit the disease to a harmless pulmonary form. Prevention of AIDS or other causes of impaired immune system will generally prevent the more severe forms of the disease.
Update Date: 1/16/2004 Updated by: Daniel Levy, M.D., Ph.D., Infectious Diseases, Greater Baltimore Medical Center, Baltimore, MD. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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Page last updated: 28 October 2004 |