Coccidioidomycosis masquerading as thyroid nodule: a rare diagnostic challenge

We present a compelling case of disseminated coccidioidomycosis involving the thyroid gland, a remarkably uncommon manifestation of this infection. The gravity of this sporadic disease is underscored by its high mortality rate, primarily because of challenges in timely diagnosis and treatment initiation. Accurate diagnosis hinges upon utilizing various techniques, including the culture of a fine-needle aspirate, biopsy and direct microscopy. However, the medical community is still grappling with the optimal treatment strategy, encompassing considerations such as duration and dosage of medications, which continue to be subjects of intense controversy and ongoing research. This article aims to report an older patient with the incidental diagnosis and management of Coccidioides in the thyroid.