Occupational aspects of coccidioidomycosis.

Infections with coccidioides immitis have been frequently associated with circumstances suggesting the likelihood of occupational origin. Some cases have been accepted as compensable by insurance carriers, the Industrial Accident Commission, and the courts. The factors considered in determining whether or not infection is of occupational origin are reviewed under the following headings.1. Laboratory infections.2. Other infections due to exposure to contaminated articles, arising outside endemic areas.3. Infections in employees entering endemic areas pursuant to their occupations.4. Primary cutaneous inoculation.5. Localization and/or aggravation of pre-existing coccidioidomycosis by occupational injury.6. Infections in agricultural workers imported into endemic areas.7. Infections in residents of endemic areas alleged to result from occupational exposures.