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A Novel Method: Super-selective Adrenal Venous Sampling
Published on: September 15, 2017
Disseminated histoplasmosis presenting as bilateral adrenal masses
L R Giacaglia1, C J Lin, A M Lucon
1Departamento de Clínica Médica, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo.
Revista Do Hospital Das Clinicas
|August 7, 1999
Summary
Disseminated histoplasmosis, a fungal infection, can present rarely as adrenal masses. This case highlights a delayed diagnosis in an elderly diabetic patient, successfully treated with antifungal medication.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
- Endocrinology
Background:
- Histoplasma capsulatum is a dimorphic fungus commonly found in soil.
- Disseminated histoplasmosis often affects immunocompromised individuals.
- Adrenal involvement is an uncommon presentation of disseminated histoplasmosis.
Observation:
- A rare case of bilateral adrenal masses with significant tissue destruction was observed.
- The patient was an elderly diabetic with symptoms suggesting a delayed presentation of infection.
- Diagnosis was confirmed post-surgical exploration.
Findings:
- Histoplasmosis was diagnosed in an elderly diabetic patient presenting with bilateral adrenal enlargement.
- Symptoms potentially arose decades after initial fungal exposure.
- Successful treatment was achieved using itraconazole.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering histoplasmosis in patients with adrenal masses, even with delayed presentation.
- Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for managing disseminated fungal infections.
- Highlighting rare clinical presentations of opportunistic fungal infections in diverse patient populations.
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