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Aspergillus-induced small bowel obstruction in a leukemic newborn
J H Raaf1, P K Donahoe, J T Truman
1Division of Pediatric Surgery, Children's Service, and Department of Pathology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Mass 02114, USA.
Surgery
|January 1, 1977
Summary
Occult aspergillosis, a fungal infection, can cause dangerous mesenteric artery blockages. This rare complication presented as a surgical emergency in an infant with acute myelocytic leukemia.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Oncology
- Infectious Diseases
- Vascular Surgery
Background:
- Congenital acute myelocytic leukemia (AML) requires intensive chemotherapy.
- Opportunistic fungal infections are a risk in immunocompromised patients.
- Aspergillus species can cause invasive disease in susceptible individuals.
Observation:
- An infant diagnosed with congenital AML developed ileal obstruction and infarction.
- The condition was attributed to occlusion of mesenteric arteries.
- Microscopic examination revealed Aspergillus hyphae as the cause of vascular occlusion.
Findings:
- This case highlights a rare presentation of invasive aspergillosis.
- Vascular occlusion by Aspergillus hyphae led to intestinal ischemia.
- The clinical presentation mimicked a surgical emergency.
Implications:
- Occult aspergillosis should be considered in immunocompromised patients with acute abdominal symptoms.
- Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent life-threatening complications.
- This case underscores the importance of multidisciplinary care in managing complex pediatric cases.