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Coccidioidomycosis in Brazil. A case report
M dos A Martins1, E da M de Araújo, M H Kuwakino
1Seção de Microbiologia do Laboratório Central do Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina da USP, Brasil.
Revista Do Instituto De Medicina Tropical De Sao Paulo
|July 14, 1998
Summary
This case report details a coccidioidomycosis infection in a patient from Northeast Brazil, diagnosed through clinical, radiological, and laboratory findings. Treatment with ketoconazole led to a favorable outcome, highlighting the importance of recognizing this fungal infection.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
- Pulmonology
Background:
- Coccidioidomycosis is an endemic fungal infection primarily found in arid regions of the Americas.
- The endemic areas share ecological similarities with Northeast Brazil, suggesting potential for wider distribution.
Observation:
- A 32-year-old male residing in São Paulo, Brazil, presented with a 6-month history of progressive respiratory symptoms and systemic signs.
- Chest imaging revealed interstitial infiltrates and a lung cavity. Sputum and bronchoalveolar lavage samples showed characteristic spherules of Coccidioides.
- Microscopic examination of fungal cultures confirmed the presence of arthroconidia. Serological tests were positive.
Findings:
- The patient was diagnosed with coccidioidomycosis based on clinical presentation, imaging, direct microscopy, culture, and serology.
- The diagnosis was confirmed by positive double immunodiffusion and complement fixation tests.
Implications:
- This case expands the known geographic range of coccidioidomycosis, indicating its presence in a region not previously considered endemic.
- Early diagnosis and appropriate antifungal treatment, such as ketoconazole, are crucial for managing coccidioidomycosis and achieving favorable clinical outcomes.