Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 22, 2026
10:06
Efficient Method for Imaging Murine Lungs that Preserves Spatial Dynamics of Fungal Spores in the Airways
Published on: December 13, 2024
Pulmonary cryptococcosis in asymptomatic immunocompetent hosts
Yeong Hun Choe1, Hee Moon, Seoung Ju Park
1Department of Internal Medicine and Research Center for Pulmonary Disorders, Chonbuk National University Medical School, Jeonju, Jeonbuk, South Korea.
Scandinavian Journal of Infectious Diseases
|June 11, 2009
Summary
Pulmonary cryptococcosis, a fungal infection, is increasingly found in immunocompetent individuals. This study highlights that multiple, smooth-edged nodules in the upper lungs are common radiologic findings in these asymptomatic patients.
Area of Science:
- Medical Imaging
- Pulmonology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Pulmonary cryptococcosis typically affects immunocompromised individuals.
- Increased incidental detection in immunocompetent hosts due to regular medical check-ups.
- Growing need to understand radiologic features in asymptomatic, immunocompetent patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the radiologic manifestations of pulmonary cryptococcosis.
- Focus on immunocompetent patients with no significant symptoms.
- Characterize imaging findings for early detection.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of clinical records and radiographic findings.
- Pathological confirmation of isolated pulmonary cryptococcosis.
- Analysis of computed tomography (CT) scans in 7 immunocompetent subjects.
Main Results:
- All patients presented with one or more pulmonary nodules.
- Multiple nodules (22 total, 3-22 mm diameter) were more common than solitary ones.
- Upper lobe predominance, well-defined, smooth margins were characteristic; cavitation was rare.
- Lymphadenopathy observed in 2 patients.
Conclusions:
- Asymptomatic pulmonary cryptococcosis in immunocompetent hosts often presents as multiple, smoothly marginated nodules.
- Upper lobe predominance is a key radiologic feature.
- CT imaging is crucial for identifying these characteristic findings.
Related Concept Videos
01:27Cryptococcal Meningitis
Cryptococcal meningitis is a life-threatening opportunistic infection predominantly associated with HIV/AIDS, accounting for over 100,000 deaths annually worldwide. However, it also affects individuals with other forms of immunosuppression, including those undergoing immunosuppressive therapy, organ transplant recipients, patients with innate immunodeficiencies, and individuals with hematological disorders. The infection is caused mainly by Cryptococcus neoformans and Cryptococcus gattii,...
01:28Pulmonary Tuberculosis II
Tuberculosis, or TB, is a bacterial infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. While its primary impact is on the lungs, leading to pulmonary tuberculosis, it can also affect various other organs, a condition referred to as extrapulmonary tuberculosis.
Here is a detailed explanation of its pathophysiology:
Transmission: The process begins when a person inhales droplet nuclei containing M. tuberculosis. These are typically released into the air when an individual with pulmonary or...
Here is a detailed explanation of its pathophysiology:
Transmission: The process begins when a person inhales droplet nuclei containing M. tuberculosis. These are typically released into the air when an individual with pulmonary or...
01:23Tuberculosis
Tuberculosis (TB) remains a significant global health concern, primarily targeting the lungs and spreading through airborne transmission. Infection begins when aerosolized droplet nuclei, expelled by an individual with active TB, are inhaled by another person. These microscopic particles carry Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the causative agent of TB. Upon reaching the alveoli, the bacilli are engulfed by alveolar macrophages. However, due to their specialized lipid-rich cell wall, these pathogens...
01:29Pulmonary Tuberculosis I
Tuberculosis, often called TB, is a contagious illness primarily caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It mainly affects the lung parenchyma but can also impact other body parts.
Causative Organism
The primary infectious agent causing tuberculosis is Mycobacterium tuberculosis, a slow-growing, acid-fast, aerobic rod that exhibits sensitivity to heat and ultraviolet light. Instances of Mycobacterium bovis and Mycobacterium avium contributing to the development of TB infection are rare.
Mode of...
Causative Organism
The primary infectious agent causing tuberculosis is Mycobacterium tuberculosis, a slow-growing, acid-fast, aerobic rod that exhibits sensitivity to heat and ultraviolet light. Instances of Mycobacterium bovis and Mycobacterium avium contributing to the development of TB infection are rare.
Mode of...
01:30Pneumonia I: Introduction
Pneumonia is an acute respiratory infection that targets the lungs, specifically the alveoli. These tiny air sacs, essential for oxygen exchange, become engorged with pus and fluid, severely hindering breathing, decreasing oxygen absorption, and causing significant pain and discomfort during respiration.
Risk Factors
Various factors influence the likelihood of developing pneumonia. Age plays a crucial role, with infants, children under two, and individuals over 65 at increased risk due to their...
Risk Factors
Various factors influence the likelihood of developing pneumonia. Age plays a crucial role, with infants, children under two, and individuals over 65 at increased risk due to their...
01:28Toxoplasmosis
Toxoplasmosis, a zoonotic disease caused by the protozoan Toxoplasma gondii, poses significant public health challenges globally due to its high seroprevalence and varied clinical manifestations. As an obligate intracellular parasite, T. gondii can infect all warm-blooded vertebrates, but felids are its only definitive hosts, shedding unsporulated oocysts into the environment. Humans typically acquire the infection through ingestion of tissue cysts in undercooked meat or oocysts from...