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Aspergillus sellar abscess: case report and review of the literature

Li Hao1, Chen Jing, Cai Bowen

  • 1Department of Neurosurgery, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, 37 Guo Xue Xiang, Wu Hou District, Chengdu-610 041, China.

Neurology India
|August 9, 2008
PubMed

Insights

This case report details the successful treatment of a rare Aspergillus sellar abscess, a fungal infection of the central nervous system. Prompt diagnosis and combined surgical and antifungal therapy led to significant patient recovery.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Mycology
  • Infectious Diseases

Background:

  • Aspergillus sellar abscess is an extremely rare central nervous system (CNS) fungal infection.
  • Sellar masses can present with varied symptoms, necessitating comprehensive diagnostic approaches.

Observation:

  • A 65-year-old woman presented with headache, nasal discharge, and decreased visual acuity.
  • Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT) scans indicated a sellar mass with bony destruction.
  • Histopathological examination confirmed aspergillosis of the sellar region.

Findings:

  • Transsphenoidal surgery followed by amphotericin-B and itraconazole therapy resulted in successful treatment.
  • The patient experienced resolution of headaches and improved visual acuity during a six-month follow-up.

Implications:

  • Aspergillus sellar abscess should be considered in the differential diagnosis of sellar masses.
  • Histopathological examination is crucial for accurate diagnosis of pituitary aspergillosis.
  • Optimal treatment involves a combination of surgical intervention and antifungal pharmacotherapy.

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