Detection of anti-Coccidioides immitis antibodies in the serum of small wild mammals in a locality of the Potosino Plateau

Historical evidence regarding coccidioidomycosis in Mexico refers to a disease with a defined distribution at the northern border of the country. However, despite the endemism indicated in the Mexican territory, as well as in the United States of America, information concerning this situation in Mexico is scarce. This research is indicated as the first Mexican report to determine antibodies against Coccidioides immitis in serum of small wild mammals in a region of the Potosino Plateau. In the municipality of Soledad de Graciano Sánchez, San Luis Potosí, Mexico, 54 samples from small mammals were taken: Didelphis virginiana, Sciurus oculatus, Otospermophilus variegatus, Rattus norvegicus, and Neotoma sp.trough the double agar immunodiffusion technique, anti-Coccidioides immitis antibodies were detected in 42.5% (23/54) of the study samples. These results allow to suggest that the fauna and the environment present favorable conditions for the fungus to develop its biological cycle in the area. This study support basis for future research on this fungal organism in relation to its adaptation to different natural environments.