Coccidioidomycosis in Children and Adolescents: an Update

Coccidioidomycosis in Children and Adolescents: an Update:

Abstract

Purpose of Review

Coccidioidomycosis is a systemic fungal infection endemic in Southwestern United States, Northern Mexico, Central and South America. Coccidioidal infection is not well characterized in pediatric population; but due to an increasing incidence in this age group, a special interest had surged to further describe clinical findings, treatment and clinical course of pediatric patients with coccidioidomycosis.

Recent Findings

In the last few years new data about coccidioidomycosis in children and adolescents has been published, including the report of increasing incidence in general population, making a high index of suspicion among healthcare providers important to avoid delays in diagnosis and treatment.

Summary

This review focuses on coccidioidal infections in pediatric population, emphasizing on the epidemiology, clinical manifestations, natural history, diagnosis and management in children and adolescents.