Current perspectives of host-pathogen dynamics in coccidioidomycosis

Coccidioidomycosis (CM), commonly known as Valley fever, is a respiratory infection caused by the inhalation or implantation of infectious arthroconidia produced by the dimorphic human fungal pathogens Coccidioides immitis and Coccidioides posadasii from the environment. The current endemic range includes the southwestern region of the United States and parts of South and Central America. Infected individuals may experience a spectrum of symptoms from asymptomatic to severe respiratory symptoms. Importantly, the fungus can disseminate to other tissues to produce severe symptoms, and in some cases, death. Despite significant effort from Coccidioides researchers to develop effective vaccines against Valley fever, there is currently no human vaccine available. This review highlights the recent advances in understanding host immune response and addressing knowledge gaps in the field.