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Pulmonary coccidioidomycosis in Kentucky
1Department of Diagnostic Radiology, University of Kenlucky Medical Center, Laxington, USA.
The Journal of the Kentucky Medical Association
|November 1, 1996
Summary
Coccidioidomycosis, a fungal infection, can cause flu-like symptoms or pneumonia. This study highlights cases diagnosed outside endemic areas, emphasizing travel history for diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
- Pulmonology
Background:
- Coccidioidomycosis is caused by the fungus Coccidioides immitis, endemic to arid regions of the Americas.
- Most infections are asymptomatic, but some progress to pneumonia or disseminated disease.
Observation:
- This report details five cases of coccidioidomycosis diagnosed at the University of Kentucky Medical Center between 1984 and 1993.
- The cases illustrate the diverse clinical and radiographic presentations of the disease.
Findings:
- Coccidioidomycosis is increasingly recognized outside its endemic geographic regions due to population mobility.
- A history of travel to or immigration from endemic areas is a crucial diagnostic clue for unexplained pulmonary symptoms.
Implications:
- Clinicians should consider coccidioidomycosis in patients with pulmonary symptoms, especially those with relevant travel history.
- Early recognition and diagnosis are vital for managing coccidioidomycosis, even in non-endemic settings.