Extensive erythematous plaques of fungal origin in an overseas student: Cutaneous manifestation of coccidioidomycosis

Abstract

We present a case of Coccidioides posadasii infection which was contracted during study abroad. This coccidioidomycosis showed atypical manifestations and was diagnosed by a combination of tissue biopsy, metagenomic next–generation sequencing, internal transcribed spacer sequencing and culture. Initial treatment with fluconazole was not effective. Antifungal therapy was switched to voriconazole based on drug sensitivity results with good result. This case demonstrates the clinical significance of combining multiple diagnostic methods.

Keywords

• Coccidioidomycosis
• Coccidioides posadasii
• Next generation sequencing
• Drug sensitivity test
• Molecular diagnosis