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[Diagnostic pitfalls in infectious disease pathology]
1Laboratoire d'Anatomie Pathologique, Hôpital Pasteur, BP 69, 06002 Nice Cedex, France. hofman@unice.fr
Abstract:
Numerous images observed in histopathology and cytopathology can mimic pathogens such as mycotic agents, parasites (protozoa or helminthes), bacteria or virus. An error of diagnosis may provoke the administration of a non efficient treatment which can also be toxic. The present review describes these false pathogens which can correspond to exogenous or endogenous agents. Basic morphological analysis of mycotic agents, parasites, bacteria and cytopathogenic viral effects are successively presented. Then, the main diagnostic pitfalls which can be observed during these infections are exposed. Finally, diagnostic problems occurring in case of contamination are rapidly cited.
Insights
Histopathology and cytopathology images can mimic infectious agents, leading to misdiagnosis. This review details these "false pathogens" and diagnostic pitfalls to improve accuracy and patient care.
Area of Science:
- Medical Mycology
- Parasitology
- Bacteriology
- Virology
- Histopathology
- Cytopathology
Background:
- Microscopic examination in histopathology and cytopathology frequently reveals structures resembling infectious agents.
- Misidentification of these non-pathogenic entities can lead to incorrect diagnoses and inappropriate, potentially toxic treatments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and illustrate
Main Methods:
- Morphological analysis of common false pathogens.
- Review of diagnostic pitfalls in identifying these entities.
- Discussion of contamination issues.
Main Results:
- Detailed descriptions of exogenous and endogenous agents that mimic mycotic agents, parasites, bacteria, and viruses.
- Identification of key morphological features to differentiate true pathogens from artifacts.
- Outline of common diagnostic errors and challenges.
Conclusions:
- Accurate differentiation of false pathogens from true infectious agents is crucial for appropriate patient management.
- Awareness of these mimics and diagnostic pitfalls can prevent unnecessary or harmful treatments.
- Proper sample handling and interpretation are essential to avoid contamination-related errors.