Final answer:
Immunocompromised individuals are at high risk for serious forms of coccidioidomycosis, commonly known as Valley fever. The disease can lead to significant complications, with severe cases potentially causing fatal meningitis.
Step-by-step explanation:
Coccidiomycosis, also known as Valley fever, is caused by infection with the dimorphic fungus Coccidioides immitis which is endemic to certain regions such as the San Joaquin Valley of California. Immunocompromised individuals are at high risk for disseminated or severe forms of coccidioidomycosis infection. This includes people with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS, those taking immunosuppressive drugs, and patients receiving chemotherapy. Disseminated coccidioidomycosis can lead to granulomatous lesions and serious complications like fatal meningitis.
Valley fever primarily affects the lungs but can spread to other parts of the body. As such, it's crucial for those who are immunocompromised to be cautious in areas where the fungus is common. Serological tests for antibodies are more often used for the diagnosis of coccidioidomycosis, while culturing the fungus is considered dangerous due to its high infectivity and previous classification as a BSL-3 microbe.