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Direct Observation of Phagocytosis and NET-formation by Neutrophils in Infected Lungs using 2-photon Microscopy
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Invasive infection due to penicillium species other than P. marneffei

G Lyratzopoulos1, M Ellis, R Nerringer

  • 1Specialist Registrar in Public Health Medicine, Stepping Hill Hospital, Stockport, UK. dbhog.lyra@virgin.net

The Journal of Infection
|October 22, 2002
PubMed

Insights

Invasive infections by Penicillium species, excluding P. marneffei, are uncommon. This study details three cases, highlighting varied responses to antifungal therapy and reviewing 31 previously reported invasive Penicillium infections.

Area of Science:

  • Mycology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Clinical Medicine

Background:

  • Infections caused by Penicillium species other than Penicillium marneffei are rare.
  • This study focuses on invasive diseases caused by these less common Penicillium species.

Observation:

  • Three cases of invasive Penicillium infections are presented: one in a patient with chronic granulomatous disorder (CGD) responding to amphotericin B, and two in non-immunocompromised patients who did not respond to therapy.
  • Case two involved cerebral disease caused by P. chrysogenum, while case three presented with paravertebral infection, likely acquired peri-operatively by P. decumbens.
  • A review of 31 reported cases from 1951 onwards revealed diverse presentations including pulmonary infections, prosthetic valve endocarditis, CAPD peritonitis, endophthalmitis, fungemia, and intracranial infections.

Findings:

  • Non-immunocompromised individuals can develop severe invasive Penicillium infections.
  • Trauma, surgery, or prosthetic materials are frequently associated with non-pulmonary invasive Penicillium infections.
  • Amphotericin B may be the most effective antifungal treatment, though optimal therapy is not yet established and surgery might be advisable.

Implications:

  • Highlights the potential for invasive disease from less common Penicillium species, even in non-immunocompromised individuals.
  • Suggests amphotericin B as a potential primary treatment for invasive Penicillium infections.
  • Emphasizes the need for further research into optimal therapeutic strategies for these rare infections.

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