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Allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis does exist in Brazil
1Geller Allergy/Immunology Clinic, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
Annals of Allergy
|October 1, 1989
Summary
This case study documents allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis in Brazil, identified through specific immunological markers. It highlights the importance of Aspergillus fumigatus testing in patients with severe asthma and recurrent lung issues.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonology
- Immunology
- Mycology
Background:
- Corticosteroid-dependent asthma often presents diagnostic challenges.
- Recurrent pulmonary infiltrates necessitate thorough etiological investigation.
- Allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA) is a hypersensitivity lung disease caused by Aspergillus fumigatus.
Observation:
- A patient with corticosteroid-dependent asthma and recurrent pulmonary infiltrates was evaluated.
- Diagnostic workup included skin testing, blood eosinophilia, total and specific IgE measurements, and precipitating antibodies.
- The patient exhibited dual skin reactivity to Aspergillus fumigatus, elevated eosinophils, total IgE, and specific IgE/IgG antibodies.
Findings:
- The patient met established criteria for allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis.
- Immunological findings included positive dual skin test reactivity, significant blood eosinophilia, elevated total serum IgE, and specific antibodies against Aspergillus fumigatus.
- This represents the first immunologically confirmed case of ABPA in Brazil.
Implications:
- This case underscores the need for comprehensive immunological evaluation in patients with severe asthma and pulmonary infiltrates.
- Early and accurate diagnosis of ABPA is crucial for appropriate management and preventing long-term lung damage.
- Further epidemiological studies are warranted to determine the prevalence of ABPA in Brazil.