Coccidioidomycosis in llamas in the United States: 19 cases (1981-1989)
Fowler, M.E.; Pappagianis, D.; Ingram, I.
Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 201(10): 1609-1614
1992
ISSN/ISBN: 0003-1488 PMID: 1289346 Document Number: 402941
Coccidioidomycosis was diagnosed in 19 llamas (California, 9; Arizona, 10). All but 1 had a disseminated form, with pyogranulomas principally in the lungs, thoracic lymph nodes, liver and kidneys. However, lesions were found in tissue specimens from most organ systems. Antemortem diagnosis was based on radiographic evaluation of the lungs, serological testing, or presence of spherules of Coccidioides immitis in pyogranuloma aspirates, skin scrapings or biopsy specimens. It was concluded that animals residing in endemic areas of southwestern United States are at risk, and llamas appear to be highly susceptible to developing disseminated forms of coccidioidomycosis.