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Updated: Oct 7, 2026
Detection of Invasive Pulmonary Aspergillosis in Haematological Malignancy Patients by using Lateral-flow Technology
Published on: March 22, 2012
[Invasive fungal infections in hematologic malignancies--a retrospective study of 61 autopsied cases]
Y Kuzuyama1, H Fujii, Y Kitagawa
13rd Dept. of Int. Med., Kyoto First Red Cross Hospital.
Abstract:
In a review of 61 consecutive autopsy cases with a hematologic malignancy, said cases extending from April, 1984 to August, 1989, 34 cases were documented to have had an invasive fungal infection. The highest rate of incidence was found in various leukemia cases (69 to 100%), followed by those who had had a malignant lymphoma (50%) and a multiple myeloma (33%). Cultures from autopsy materials that determined the presence of a fungus were positive in 21 cases, including 13 cases of candidiasis, 8 cases of aspergillosis, and 2 cases of geotrichosis. The most frequent site of the fungal infection was in the lungs (76%), followed by the GI tract, the kidneys, the liver, and the spleen. Of 36 cases that had been treated with an empiric antifungal therapy, an invasive fungal infection was documented in 22 cases, half of them being fatal. In contrast, of 20 cases that had not received any antifungal treatment prior to death, an invasive fungal infection was found in 8 cases and three of these were fatal.
Insights
Hematologic malignancy patients frequently develop invasive fungal infections, particularly leukemia cases. Antifungal therapy showed a survival benefit, reducing fatal invasive fungal infections in these immunocompromised patients.
Area of Science:
- Medical Mycology
- Hematology
- Pathology
Background:
- Hematologic malignancies significantly increase the risk of invasive fungal infections (IFIs).
- Autopsy studies are crucial for understanding the true incidence and spectrum of IFIs in this patient population.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the incidence and types of IFIs in patients with hematologic malignancies through autopsy review.
- To evaluate the impact of empiric antifungal therapy on IFI-related mortality.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 61 autopsy cases with hematologic malignancy (April 1984 - August 1989).
- Documentation of IFIs, fungal cultures, and antifungal treatment history.
- Analysis of IFI incidence by malignancy type and correlation with treatment.
Main Results:
- 34 out of 61 (56%) cases had IFIs, with the highest incidence in leukemia (69-100%).
- Commonly identified fungi included Candida (13 cases) and Aspergillus (8 cases).
- Lungs were the most frequent infection site (76%). Empiric antifungal therapy was associated with lower mortality.
Conclusions:
- Invasive fungal infections are a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in hematologic malignancy patients.
- Early empiric antifungal treatment may improve survival outcomes in this high-risk group.
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