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Coccidioidomycosis - disseminated

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Definition:

Coccidioidomycosis is an infection caused by breathing in spores of Coccidioides immitis , a fungus found in the soil in certain parts of the southwestern U.S., Mexico, and Central and South America. The infection spreads through the bloodstream and involves many organs.

Alternative Names:

Coccidioidomycosis - systemic

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

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 the disseminated form of the disease, the infection may spread to the bones, lungs, liver, brain, skin, heart, and pericardium (sac around the heart).

Meningitis occurs in 30 - 50% of cases of disseminated disease. Immunodeficient ( immunosuppressed ) people -- including those with HIV infection , people with diabetes, 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.

References:

Chiller TM. Coccidioidomycosis. Infect Dis Clin North Am . 2003; 17(1): 41-57, viii.

Murray J, Nadel J. Textbook of Respiratory Medicine . 3rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: WB Saunders; 2000.

Mandell GL, Bennett JE, Dolin R. Principles and Practice of Infectious Diseases . 5th ed. London, UK: Churchill Livingstone; 2000:2746-2755.

• Review Date: 11/7/2005
• Reviewed By: Cyrus Badshah, M.D., Ph.D., Assistant Professor of Clinical Medicine, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University; Assistant Attending Physician, Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases & Medical Director, Chest (TB) Clinic and Directly Observed Therapy Program, Harlem Hospital Center. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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