What is the Difference Between Coccidioides and Coccidioidomycosis?

Coccidioides and Coccidioidomycosis are related but distinct terms. The main differences between them are as follows:

• Coccidioides: Coccidioides is a genus of dimorphic fungi that exist as mycelia or as spherules. These fungi are known to live in the soil in the southwestern United States, parts of Mexico, and some areas in south-central Washington. There are two species within this genus: Coccidioides immitis (typically found in California) and Coccidioides posadasii (typically found outside of California).
• Coccidioidomycosis: Also known as Valley Fever, coccidioidomycosis is an infection caused by the fungus Coccidioides. The fungus was first discovered in 1892 and was later named Coccidioides. People can get Valley fever by breathing in the microscopic fungal spores from the air, although most people who breathe in the spores don’t get sick. The infection has a wide spectrum of clinical manifestations, ranging from asymptomatic infection to fatal disease. Treatment options for coccidioidomycosis vary depending on the severity of the infection and the patient's immune status.

In summary, Coccidioides is the genus of fungi responsible for causing Valley Fever (coccidioidomycosis), which is an infection that can lead to mild to severe symptoms in affected individuals.

Comparative Table: Coccidioides vs Coccidioidomycosis

Coccidioides and Coccidioidomycosis are related but distinct terms. Here is a table outlining the differences between the two:

In summary, Coccidioides are the fungal species responsible for causing Coccidioidomycosis, a systemic infectious disease endemic to the soil in areas with limited rainfall.