Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 11, 2026
08:01
Detection of Invasive Pulmonary Aspergillosis in Haematological Malignancy Patients by using Lateral-flow Technology
Published on: March 22, 2012
[Invasive multisystemic aspergillosis in an immunocompetent child: case report]
Alejandro Donoso F1, Jorge Camacho A, Pedro Alarcón L
1Area de Cuidados Críticos, Unidad de Gestión Clínica del Niño, Hospital Padre Hurtado. adonoso@hurtadohosp.cl
Summary
Invasive aspergillosis is a severe fungal infection that is increasingly seen in critically ill children, even those without prior immune issues. This case highlights the aggressive nature and high mortality rate of this emergent pediatric infection.
Area of Science:
- Medical Mycology
- Pediatric Infectious Diseases
- Critical Care Medicine
Background:
- Invasive aspergillosis (IA) is a serious fungal infection primarily affecting immunocompromised individuals.
- Recent decades have seen an increased incidence of IA, posing a significant clinical challenge.
- IA rarely occurs in immunocompetent hosts, making such cases noteworthy.
Observation:
- A previously healthy 8-year-old boy developed invasive aspergillosis originating in the abdomen following a laparotomy.
- The patient rapidly progressed to multiple organ failure within three weeks.
- Despite aggressive treatment, including antifungal therapy and surgical intervention, the patient succumbed to the infection.
Findings:
- Necropsy confirmed widespread dissemination of angioinvasive aspergillosis with characteristic pathological findings.
- The abdominal origin of the infection was a key feature in this case.
- The patient's previously immunocompetent status underscores the potential for IA in diverse pediatric populations.
Implications:
- Invasive aspergillosis should be recognized as an emergent threat in critical pediatric care, extending to immunocompetent patients.
- Prompt diagnosis and aggressive management are crucial, though mortality remains high.
- This case emphasizes the need for heightened awareness and vigilance for IA in critically ill children, irrespective of their immune status.
