Coccidioidomycosis in Africa: Mini Review

Abstract

AbstractBackgroundCoccidioidomycosis, also known as San Joaquin valley fever, is a disease caused by inhalation of spores from Coccidioides fungi that are endemic to certain parts of the Americas. However, cases have increasingly been reported in other parts of the world including Africa.MethodsA systematic search of PubMed, Google Scholar and Web of Science databases was conducted in June 2022 using terms: “Coccidioidomycosis”,“Coccidioides”,“San Joaquin Valley fever” in combination with “Africa”. Studies were screened and included if they reported original clinical cases of human coccidioidomycosis originating from Africa. Data extraction focused on demographics, clinical characteristics, diagnosis and exposure links.ResultsA total of 29 articles met the eligibility criteria and were included in the review. Most cases originated from North and East Africa with common clinical presentations including pulmonary symptoms, skin lesions and disseminated disease. Exposure links included travel to endemic areas.ConclusionThough traditionally considered non-endemic, Africa appears to be experiencing an increase in reported Coccidioidomycosis cases, highlighting the need for awareness and further research on disease epidemiology in the region.