ENTRY INTO BODY
Inhalation of the highly infective spores
Few cases result in Chronic pulmonary disease.
May spread to any part of the body to any organ
in severe cases.
Few cases result in a chronic disease.
Mild Influenza symptoms in healthy individuals is common.
This can lead to a chronic respiratory infection in risk individuals.
Chronic infection leads to dissemination
to bone, subcutaneous tissues, meninges and other organs.
Development of a blistering rash.
Neurological problems may develop when the brain affected.
Dissemination associated with immunosuppression.
Image copyright (c) www.doctorfungus.org and used by permission
Image copyright (c) www.doctorfungus.org and used by permission
TRANSMISSION
Transmission from infected to healthy people is rare.
Laboratory workers at risk during work with infective conidia.
It is not believed that coccidioidomycosis can be passed from human to human.
Those exposed to dust in endemic disease areas.
Immune compromised.
Pregnant women.
Laboratory workers working with infective organisms.
Common in Semi arid/desert regions of America.
Men are affected more than women.
Animals are susceptible to infection - cats and dogs.
Wild carcasses may be the reservoir of infection.
High death rate in HIV affected.
Culture fungus from pus, sputum and joint fluids.
Skin test to reveal exposure to organism.
Blood test for antibodies to the infection.
Infection produces lifelong immunity .
In mild cases - no treatment necessary - will often resolve itself.
Oral fluconazole, itraconazole, ketoconazole may be given.
Amphotericin B via IV for severe cases.
Surgery to remove nodules from the lungs or bone.
Prevention - reduce exposure to dust in endemic areas.
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