What is the definition or description of: coccidiomycosis?

A fungus: It is a fungus found in in the southwest whose spores if inhaled can cause various forms of respiratory illness- most often benign in nature, and self limited. Other names for this illness are desert or valley fever.

Coccidiomycosis: Valley Fever / Coccidioidomycosis is a fungal infection found in desert soil. There may be no sx's or mild sx's in 60%. Sx's: cough, shortness of breath, chest pain, fatigue, low fever, night sweats, headache, muscle/joint pain, rash, weight loss, meningitis or pneumonia. Dx is via serologic tests for coccidioidomycosis or cultures.