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Cutaneous aspergillosis in patients with haematological malignancies
D D'Antonio1, L Pagano, C Girmenia
1Hematology Department, Ospedale Civile Spirito Santo, Pescara, Italy. dandomz@tin.it
Abstract:
The aim of the present study was to evaluate skin infections caused by Aspergillus in patients with haematological malignancies. Fifteen cases of cutaneous aspergillosis are reported, 12 of which occurred among 4448 consecutive patients with acute leukaemia. Cutaneous involvement occurred in 4% of patients with documented Aspergillus infection. Primary cutaneous aspergillosis was diagnosed in five cases. Infection was fatal in 11 of 15 cases; the absence of additional sites of infection other than cutis at presentation appeared to be the only factor related to a favourable outcome.
Insights
Cutaneous aspergillosis, a skin infection caused by Aspergillus, is a serious complication in patients with acute leukaemia. Early diagnosis and limited infection sites are key to improving outcomes for these vulnerable patients.
Area of Science:
- Medical Mycology
- Hematology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Hematological malignancies significantly increase the risk of opportunistic infections.
- Aspergillus species are common fungal pathogens causing invasive infections in immunocompromised individuals.
- Cutaneous manifestations of Aspergillus infections can be a marker of disseminated disease.