What symptom is often associated with coccidioidomycosis infection?

Coccidioidomycosis, also known as Valley fever, is a fungal infection caused by the Coccidioides species, primarily affecting the lungs but can disseminate to other parts of the body. One of the hallmark symptoms of pulmonary coccidioidomycosis is a dry cough. This symptom often arises due to the inflammatory response in the lungs following infection.

Patients with coccidioidomycosis typically present with respiratory symptoms, and while cough may be productive in various pulmonary infections, the cough associated with coccidioidomycosis is more often described as dry. This is indicative of the non-specific pulmonary involvement where there may be irritation and inflammation without significant mucus production.

Fever and chills, hemoptysis, and joint pain can occur in patients with coccidioidomycosis as well. Fever may accompany the infection, particularly in cases of acute pneumonia or disseminated disease. Joint pain is often seen in disseminated cases, leading to coccidioidal meningitis or arthritis. However, the prevalent symptom consistent with the early stages of pulmonary infection is indeed a dry cough, making it a notable feature of coccidioidomycosis.