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An unusual presentation of Aspergillus species in a routine cervicovaginal pap smear: a case report

Smita Chandra1, Dushyant Gaur, Meena Harsh

  • 1Department of Pathology, Himalayan Institute of Medical Sciences, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India. drharishbudakoti31@yahoo.co.in

Acta Cytologica
|April 16, 2009
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Aspergillus species, identified by hyphae and fruiting bodies in Pap smears, are rare. Distinguishing contamination from true infection is crucial for appropriate patient management and avoiding unnecessary antifungal therapy.

Area of Science:

  • Gynecologic Pathology
  • Mycology
  • Diagnostic Cytology

Background:

  • Aspergillus species are rarely identified in cervicovaginal Pap smears.
  • Distinguishing true Aspergillus infection from contamination is critical.
  • Morphological features, particularly fruiting bodies, aid in species identification.

Observation:

  • A 52-year-old woman presented with a routine Pap smear.
  • The smear revealed atrophic changes and inflammatory cells.
  • Numerous Aspergillus hyphae and fruiting bodies were observed.

Findings:

  • Clinical investigation and smear examination confirmed the presence of Aspergillus was due to contamination.
  • A repeat Pap smear one month later was unremarkable.
  • Morphological identification of Aspergillus species is important for diagnosis.

Implications:

  • Accurate differentiation between contamination and infection prevents unnecessary antifungal treatment.
  • True Aspergillus infections require assessment of immune status and prompt investigation.
  • Morphological analysis of fungal elements in Pap smears is vital for accurate diagnosis.

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