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Case report. Fatal Aspergillus flavus pericarditis in a patient with acute myeloblastic leukaemia
Mycoses
|June 6, 2000
Abstract:
We report a case of Aspergillus flavus pericarditis treated with fluconazole for oral candidosis. The patient with acute myeloblastic leukaemia developed tachypnoea after antileukaemic chemotherapy. Pericardial effusion was seen in the echocardiogram. Aspergillus flavus was isolated from the pericardial fluid. The patient died from aspergillosis, before the antimycotic treatment could be changed to amphotericin B.
Insights
A case of Aspergillus flavus pericarditis in an acute myeloblastic leukemia patient resulted in death. Despite treatment for oral candidosis, invasive aspergillosis progressed before amphotericin B could be administered.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
- Hematology
Background:
- Acute myeloblastic leukemia (AML) patients undergoing chemotherapy are immunocompromised.
- Invasive fungal infections, such as aspergillosis, pose a significant risk in these patients.
- Pericarditis is a rare but serious complication of invasive fungal infections.
Observation:
- A patient with AML developed tachypnoea post-chemotherapy.
- Echocardiogram revealed pericardial effusion.
- Aspergillus flavus was identified in the pericardial fluid.
Findings:
- The patient presented with Aspergillus flavus pericarditis.
- Initial treatment focused on fluconazole for concurrent oral candidosis.
- The patient succumbed to disseminated aspergillosis before effective antifungal therapy could be initiated.
Implications:
- This case highlights the aggressive nature of Aspergillus flavus in immunocompromised hosts.
- Early diagnosis and prompt, broad-spectrum antifungal treatment are crucial for managing invasive fungal infections in AML patients.
- Limitations in treatment escalation underscore the need for timely intervention in suspected invasive aspergillosis.