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Updated: Jun 25, 2026
09:52
Histological Quantification to Determine Lung Fungal Burden in Experimental Aspergillosis
Published on: March 9, 2018
Chronic necrotizing pulmonary aspergillosis.
Eduardo Felipe Barbosa Silva1, Melânio de Paula Barbosa, Marco Antônio Alves de Oliveira
1Unidade de Broncoesofagologia, Hospital de Base do Distrito Federal, Brasília, DF, Brazil. efbsbpt@sbpt.org.br
Summary
This case study highlights chronic necrotizing pulmonary aspergillosis in a mildly immunocompromised patient. Treatment with itraconazole led to a favorable outcome, demonstrating effective management of this fungal lung infection.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonology
- Infectious Diseases
- Mycology
Background:
- Chronic necrotizing pulmonary aspergillosis (CNPA) is a fungal infection affecting mildly immunocompromised individuals.
- Pulmonary aspergillosis encompasses various forms, with CNPA presenting distinct clinical and radiological features.
Observation:
- A female patient presented with chronic cough, fever, and asthenia, with a history of corticosteroid use.
- Chest CT revealed consolidation and cavitation in the right upper lobe.
- Fiberoptic bronchoscopy identified purulent secretions and an endobronchial lesion.
Findings:
- Biopsies confirmed Aspergillus infection, leading to a diagnosis of CNPA based on clinical, radiological, and histopathological data.
- The patient received itraconazole for treatment.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering CNPA in patients with risk factors like corticosteroid use.
- Successful treatment with itraconazole suggests its efficacy in managing CNPA.
- Early diagnosis and appropriate antifungal therapy are crucial for favorable outcomes in pulmonary aspergillosis.
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