Diagnostic and treatment challenges for the pediatric hematologist oncologist in endemic areas for coccidioidomycosis.

Coccidioidomycosis is a mycosis endemic to certain areas in the Southwest, mostly Arizona and California, Mexico, and parts of Central and South America. Disseminated coccidioidomycosis is much more common in immunocompromised hosts; therefore, it is frequently encountered by pediatric oncologists in endemic areas. Special attention is needed to diagnose, effectively treat the infection, and appropriately adjust chemotherapy treatment plans to minimize immunosuppression.