A construction worker in Tucson, AZ, presents with flu-like symptoms and productive cough. A sputum specimen is submitted for fungal culture. The fungal culture reveals a white, cottony mould at both 25 and 35 degrees. On microscopic examination, arthrospores are noted. This isolate is probably a member of the _________ group of fungi.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The presence of arthrospores and the ability to grow at both 25 and 35 degrees Celsius suggest the fungus is a member of the systemic group, which includes fungi that can cause systemic infections like coccidioidomycosis, especially relevant in the context of a construction worker in Tucson, AZ, where Coccidioides spp., a systemic fungus, is endemic.

A Construction Worker in Tucson, AZ, Presents with Flu-Like Symptoms