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Respiratory failure caused by adiaspiromycosis
J V Barbas Filho1, M B Amato, D Deheinzelin
1Pulmonary Division, Hospital das Clinicas, São Paulo, Brazil.
Chest
|May 1, 1990
Summary
Adiaspiromycosis, a rare fungal lung infection, caused severe respiratory issues in two Brazilian patients. Diagnosis proved challenging, but successful treatment was achieved, with spontaneous resolution also considered.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Pulmonology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Adiaspiromycosis is a rare pulmonary disease caused by Emmonsia crescens.
- Infection occurs through inhalation of fungal conidia.
- The fungus does not multiply in the alveoli but triggers inflammation, potentially leading to respiratory failure.
Observation:
- Two new cases of symptomatic adiaspiromycosis were documented in Brazil.
- Patients presented with diffuse interstitial infiltrates and severe respiratory impairment.
- Massive fungal infestation in closed, stuffy environments was hypothesized as the cause.
Findings:
- Specific diagnosis was difficult, with cultures, skin tests, and bronchoalveolar lavage proving ineffective.
- Both patients responded well to treatment.
- The possibility of spontaneous resolution of the condition was noted.
Implications:
- This report expands the documented cases of disseminated adiaspiromycosis.
- It highlights diagnostic challenges associated with this rare fungal infection.
- It suggests potential environmental risk factors for massive infestation.