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Detection of Invasive Pulmonary Aspergillosis in Haematological Malignancy Patients by using Lateral-flow Technology
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Disseminated aspergillosis inciting intestinal ischaemia and obstruction

S S Shah1, B A Birnbaum, J E Jacobs

  • 1Department of Radiology, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, 3400 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.

The British Journal of Radiology
|January 5, 2002
PubMed

Insights

Invasive aspergillosis, a serious infection in immunocompromised individuals, can affect the gastrointestinal tract. This study details CT imaging findings of gastrointestinal invasive aspergillosis leading to intestinal ischemia and obstruction.

Area of Science:

  • Medical Imaging
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Gastroenterology

Background:

  • Invasive aspergillosis is a severe opportunistic infection primarily impacting immunocompromised patients.
  • While pulmonary entry is common, gastrointestinal involvement is rare but can lead to disseminated disease.
  • Disseminated infection is known, but specific CT findings of gastrointestinal disease are not well-documented.

Observation:

  • This report describes a case of invasive aspergillosis localized to the gastrointestinal tract.
  • The patient presented with symptoms indicative of intestinal compromise.
  • Computed Tomography (CT) was utilized to visualize the affected gastrointestinal structures.

Findings:

  • CT revealed findings consistent with invasive aspergillosis of the gastrointestinal tract.
  • The infection led to intestinal ischemia, a critical reduction in blood flow to the intestines.
  • Complications included a small bowel obstruction, a serious condition requiring medical intervention.

Implications:

  • This case highlights the importance of considering gastrointestinal invasive aspergillosis in immunocompromised patients with abdominal symptoms.
  • CT imaging plays a crucial role in diagnosing this rare but severe manifestation.
  • Recognizing these CT findings can aid in timely diagnosis and management, potentially improving patient outcomes and reducing mortality.

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