Coccidioidomycosis is a fungal infection caused by Coccidioides immitis. It may cause fever, cough, chest pain, shortness of breath, or red, swollen bumps on the skin.
The fungus lives in soil, and its spores can become airborne when the ground is disturbed. Infection occurs when a person inhales the spores and they enter the lungs.
Coccidioidomycosis is also known as Valley fever. Treatment may include rest, hydration, and, in some cases, antifungal medication prescribed by a primary care provider, infectious disease specialist, or pulmonologist.
Main symptoms
The main symptoms of coccidioidomycosis are:
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Fever or chills
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Cough, which may include coughing up blood
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Weight loss
Other symptoms may include redness, lumps, or swelling on the skin, especially on the legs. Extreme tiredness, weakness, and joint pain may also occur.
According to the CDC, symptoms of coccidioidomycosis usually appear 1 to 3 weeks after a person inhales the fungal spores.
In some cases, the fungus can spread to other parts of the body and cause osteomyelitis, joint inflammation, or meningitis.
Symptoms of coccidioidomycosis should be evaluated by a healthcare provider so that the condition can be diagnosed and appropriate treatment can be started.
Confirming a diagnosis
Coccidioidomycosis is diagnosed by a primary care provider, infectious disease specialist, or pulmonologist. The doctor will ask about the symptoms, medical history, and possible occupational or environmental exposure to the fungus, and perform a physical examination.
Blood tests to detect antibodies against the fungus are commonly used to help confirm the diagnosis. Additional tests may include a sputum sample for fungal testing, a chest X-ray or CT scan, and, in some cases, other imaging studies.
A lumbar puncture may be performed if coccidioidal meningitis is suspected.
Possible causes
Coccidioidomycosis is caused by Coccidioides immitis. Infection occurs when fungal spores are inhaled and enter the lungs.
In the lungs, the fungus can multiply and cause inflammation, leading to symptoms of coccidioidomycosis, or Valley fever.
How it spreads
Exposure to Coccidioides immitis may occur through:
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Inhaling fungal spores that have become airborne
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Disturbing or coming into contact with contaminated soil, which can release spores into the air
People who work in agriculture, farming, construction, or archaeology may have a higher risk of exposure to the fungus.
Other factors that increase the risk of severe coccidioidomycosis include a weakened immune system, diabetes, and pregnancy.
Treatment options
Treatment for coccidioidomycosis should be managed by a primary care provider, infectious disease specialist, or pulmonologist. It may include supportive care and medication.
The main treatments for coccidioidomycosis are:
1. Rest
The initial symptoms of Valley fever may resolve on their own without specific treatment.
In these cases, rest and adequate fluid intake are recommended to support the body during recovery.
2. Medication
If symptoms worsen or the infection becomes severe or spreads beyond the lungs, antifungal treatment may be needed. According to the CDC, fluconazole may be prescribed for more serious infections, while severe or disseminated cases generally require longer courses of antifungal treatment.
Treatment typically lasts 6 to 12 months for chronic or disseminated disease, although the duration varies depending on the type and severity of the infection and the doctor's recommendations.
The doctor may also recommend pain relievers to reduce fever and relieve headaches, chest pain, or joint pain.
How to prevent
To help reduce the risk of coccidioidomycosis, people working in dusty environments in areas where the fungus is found should avoid disturbing soil whenever possible. If dust exposure cannot be avoided, a properly fitted N95 respirator may help reduce exposure to airborne spores.
It is also recommended to stay indoors during dust storms and other unusually windy or dusty conditions.