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Cerebral aspergillosis presenting as a mass lesion
Negar Azarpira1, Majid Esfandiari, Mohamad Hadi Bagheri
1Transplant Research Center, Department of Pathology, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran. negarazarpira@yahoo.com
Summary
Central nervous system (CNS) fungal infections, like Aspergillus, are rare and mimic other conditions. This case highlights a fatal intracranial granuloma due to Aspergillus fumigatus, emphasizing diagnostic challenges.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Fungal infections of the central nervous system (CNS) are rare and often present subtly, mimicking pyogenic abscesses or brain tumors.
- Aspergillosis of the CNS is uncommon, primarily affecting immunocompromised individuals.
- It can manifest in various forms, including meningitis, mycotic aneurysms, infarcts, and tumoral presentations.
Observation:
- A case of intracranial granuloma caused by Aspergillus fumigatus involving the anterior cranial fossa and frontal lobe is reported.
- Clinical symptoms developed over a year prior to admission.
- Diagnosis was confirmed post-craniotomy.
Findings:
- The patient presented with an intracranial granuloma due to Aspergillus fumigatus.
- Treatment involved surgical excision and intravenous amphotericin B.
- Despite extensive treatment, the patient did not respond and ultimately died.
Implications:
- This case underscores the diagnostic difficulties and poor prognosis associated with CNS aspergillosis.
- Early and accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective management of these rare infections.
- Further research into novel therapeutic strategies for CNS fungal infections is warranted.
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