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Trichomonas empyema with respiratory failure
Hua-Kung Wang1, Jih Shuin Jerng, Kua-Eyre Su
1Section of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, En-Chu-Kong Hospital, Sanshia, Taipei County, Taiwan. clae@ms10.hinet
The American Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene
|December 19, 2006
Summary
Pulmonary trichomoniasis is rare. This case report details a successful treatment of Trichomonas empyema in a non-immunocompromised patient with bilateral pleural effusion.
Area of Science:
- Medical Microbiology
- Pulmonology
Background:
- Pulmonary trichomoniasis is an uncommon infection.
- Trichomonas empyema, a specific manifestation, is exceptionally rare, with limited documented cases.
Observation:
- A 55-year-old immunocompetent male presented with respiratory failure due to bilateral pleural effusion.
- Microscopic examination of pleural fluid revealed motile organisms identified as Trichomonas species.
Findings:
- The patient was diagnosed with Trichomonas empyema.
- Successful treatment involved a multi-modal approach including antibiotics (metronidazole, ampicillin/clavulanate), fibrinolytic therapy, and surgical intervention (thoracotomy decortication).
Implications:
- This case expands the understanding of rare pulmonary parasitic infections.
- It highlights the importance of considering unusual pathogens in pleural effusions and the efficacy of combined therapeutic strategies.
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