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Updated: Jul 4, 2026

Murine Intrapulmonary Tracheal Transplantation: A Model for Investigating Obliterative Airway Disease After Lung Transplantation
Published on: November 10, 2023
Aspergillus niger causing tracheobronchitis and invasive pulmonary aspergillosis in a lung transplant recipient: case
Melissa Orzechowski Xavier1, Maria da Penha Uchoa Sales, José de Jesus Peixoto Camargo
1Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS.
Abstract:
A case of invasive aspergillosis caused by Aspergillus niger in a lung transplant recipient is described. The patient presented hyperglycemia starting postoperatively, with other complications such as cytomegalovirus infection. The associated predisposing factors and other implications are discussed. Aspergillus niger seems to be a fungal species of low virulence that requires the presence of a severely immunosuppressed host to cause invasive disease.
Insights
Invasive aspergillosis caused by Aspergillus niger occurred in a lung transplant patient with hyperglycemia and cytomegalovirus infection. This highlights Aspergillus niger
Area of Science:
- Medical Mycology
- Transplant Surgery
- Immunocompromised Hosts
Background:
- Lung transplant recipients are susceptible to opportunistic infections.
- Invasive aspergillosis poses a significant threat in immunocompromised individuals.
- Aspergillus niger is typically considered a low-virulence fungal species.
Observation:
- A lung transplant recipient developed invasive aspergillosis caused by Aspergillus niger.
- The patient experienced postoperative hyperglycemia.
- Cytomegalovirus infection was another complication observed in the patient.
Findings:
- Aspergillus niger demonstrated invasive potential in a severely immunosuppressed host.
- Hyperglycemia and cytomegalovirus infection were associated conditions.
- The case underscores the importance of vigilance for fungal infections post-transplant.
Implications:
- Severely immunocompromised states are critical for Aspergillus niger pathogenesis.
- Early detection and management of fungal infections are vital in transplant care.
- This case expands understanding of Aspergillus niger virulence factors in clinical settings.
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