What is the medical term for valley fever?

Valley fever is medically referred to as coccidioidomycosis. This condition is caused by the inhalation of spores from the fungus Coccidioides immitis, which is typically found in arid regions such as the southwestern United States. The name "valley fever" comes from the San Joaquin Valley in California, where the disease was first identified. When individuals inhale these spores, they can experience flu-like symptoms, and in some cases, the infection can spread beyond the lungs, leading to more severe health issues.

The other terms listed refer to different fungal infections and are not associated with valley fever. Histoplasmosis, for example, is caused by a different fungus, Histoplasma capsulatum, typically found in soil contaminated with bird or bat droppings. Similarly, blastomycosis is linked to the fungus Blastomyces dermatitidis and is prevalent in certain areas near water bodies in North America. Aspergillosis is caused by various species of the Aspergillus fungus, often affecting individuals with weakened immune systems or lung conditions. Each of these conditions has its own distinct etiology, which is why the correct medical term for valley fever is coccidioidomycosis.