An imported case of acute pulmonary coccidioidomycosis in an Italian traveller

Infection. 2014 Oct;42(5):921-4. doi: 10.1007/s15010-014-0614-4. Epub 2014 Apr 26.

Abstract

Coccidioidomycosis is a fungal infection caused by the Coccidioides species, which is endemic in the deserts of the southwestern region of the United States, northern Mexico, and in some areas of Central and South America. We describe a case of pulmonary coccidioidomycosis in a 49-year-old Italian man who came to our hospital with fever and joint and muscle pain 10 days after his return to Italy from Venezuela. Computer Tomography revealed multiple bilateral pulmonary nodules with mediastinal lymphadenopathy. Pulmonary coccidioidomycosis was diagnosed by a serological test, and fluconazole was immediately started. The patient improved within 2 weeks, with complete clinical recovery after 6 months of therapy. This case appears to be part of a large serologically unconfirmed outbreak. In order to provide early diagnosis and treatment, healthcare providers should be aware of coccidioidomycosis, even in travellers returning home from short trips to endemic areas.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Administration, Intravenous
  • Administration, Oral
  • Antifungal Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Coccidioides / isolation & purification*
  • Coccidioidomycosis / diagnostic imaging*
  • Coccidioidomycosis / drug therapy*
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Fluconazole / therapeutic use*
  • Humans
  • Immunodiffusion
  • Italy
  • Lung Diseases, Fungal / diagnostic imaging*
  • Lung Diseases, Fungal / drug therapy*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed
  • Travel
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Antifungal Agents
  • Fluconazole