Coccidioidomycosis in Peru: an imported case

Ochoa S.A.; Quispe-Mendoza M.; Medina J.V.; McFarlane C.; Seas C. · Revista Chilena de Infectologia (2025) · DOI: 10.4067/s0716-10182025000300137

Resumen

Coccidioides spp. is a fungus transmitted by inhalation of envi-ronmental arthroconidia from arid or semiarid areas. Although cases of coccidioidomycosis have been reported in South America, the lack of epidemiological surveillance and the asymptomatic nature of many cases make it difficult to estimate its prevalence in the region. We report the first case of coccidioidomycosis in Peru, apparently acquired in the United States. The patient was initially evaluated for fever of unknown origin. Histopathology of lung biopsy confirmed the diagnosis of coccidioidomycosis. He was treated with fluconazo-le, with a remarkable clinical improvement of the patient. This case highlights the importance of considering coccidioidomycosis in the differential diagnosis of FUO, especially in patients with a history of travel to endemic areas.

Instituciones: Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia