Biological response modifiers for the treatment of Crohn's disease

Disseminated Coccidioidomycosis in an Adolescent With Crohn's Disease

Coccidioidomycosis is a systemic mycosis caused by Coccidioides immitis/posadasii. This dimorphic fungus is endemic to the Southwestern United States, particularly in California and Arizona. Most infections are asymptomatic or mild, but around 5% of patients develop complicated pulmonary infection, and approximately 1% may progress to disseminated disease. We present the case of an adolescent male with Crohn's disease who received the integrin inhibitor, vedolizumab, and developed disseminated coccidioidomycosis. This case underscores the importance of considering severe and/or disseminated coccidioidomycosis in immunosuppressed children. In our case, clinical suspicion and bronchoscopy helped confirm the diagnosis and facilitate appropriate evaluation and treatment.