Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 30, 2026

Detection of Invasive Pulmonary Aspergillosis in Haematological Malignancy Patients by using Lateral-flow Technology
Published on: March 22, 2012
Anogenital Ulcers: An Unusual Manifestation of Invasive Aspergillosis
Pablo Vargas1, Fernando Valenzuela1, Viera Kaplan1
1Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile.
Abstract:
Aspergillus spp. is one of the most ubiquitous fungi but generally does not cause disease in immunocompetent patients. It is the second most frequent agent of opportunistic fungal infections, after Candida albicans, with a rise in its incidence on recent years. Invasive fungal diseases represent an important cause of morbidity and mortality. Its origin can be primary, in relation to a cutaneous injury, or secondary, by extension from contiguous tissues, or by hematogenous spread, usually in the context of pulmonary aspergillosis. In this report, we describe the case of an elderly woman with invasive aspergillosis that manifested with anogenital and skin ulcers, with unfavorable outcome, despite intensive therapy and intravenous antifungals.
Insights
Invasive aspergillosis, a serious opportunistic fungal infection, can manifest as skin ulcers. This case highlights a severe presentation in an elderly woman, despite aggressive antifungal treatment.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
- Dermatology
Background:
- Aspergillus species are common fungi, typically causing disease only in immunocompromised individuals.
- Opportunistic fungal infections are increasing, posing significant morbidity and mortality risks.
- Invasive aspergillosis can originate from skin injury, tissue extension, or hematogenous spread, commonly from pulmonary infections.
Observation:
- This report details a case of invasive aspergillosis in an elderly woman.
- The infection presented with severe anogenital and skin ulcers.
- The patient had an unfavorable outcome despite intensive antifungal therapy.
Findings:
- Invasive aspergillosis can manifest with extensive cutaneous and mucocutaneous lesions.
- Elderly patients may be at higher risk for severe presentations.
- Aggressive antifungal treatment may not always ensure a favorable outcome in severe invasive aspergillosis.
Implications:
- This case underscores the potential for severe, disseminated disease in invasive aspergillosis, even in the absence of typical risk factors.
- Early recognition and aggressive management are crucial, but outcomes can still be poor.
- Further research into risk factors and treatment strategies for invasive aspergillosis in vulnerable populations is warranted.
Related Concept Videos
Unusual Results
According to the range rule of thumb, any value above or below two standard deviations, 2σ from the mean, μ is considered unusual.
Maximum unusual value =...
Peptic Ulcer Disease III: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies
Few clinical manifestations differentiate gastric ulcers from duodenal ulcers. Distinctions in the location, timing, and pain relief are crucial for healthcare providers in differentiating between gastric and duodenal ulcers during clinical assessments.
z Scores and Unusual Values
This score indicates how far a value is from the mean in terms of standard deviation. For example, if a data value has a z score of +1, the researcher can infer that the particular data value is one standard deviation above the mean. If another data...
Peptic Ulcer Disease II: Pathophysiology
Damaging agents such as Helicobacter pylori, gastric acid, pepsin, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can weaken the mucosal defense, allowing hydrogen ions to infiltrate back and harm epithelial cells.
Peptic Ulcer Disease I: Introduction
An acute ulcer, marked by superficial erosion and minimal inflammation, swiftly resolves upon identifying and addressing the underlying cause. In contrast, a chronic ulcer persists, potentially eroding through the muscular wall and forming fibrous tissue.
Peptic ulcers can also be...
Peptic Ulcer Disease IV: Management
The therapeutic approach involves ensuring adequate rest, implementing drug therapy, promoting smoking cessation, making dietary modifications, and emphasizing long-term follow-up care.
Pharmacological management
The prevailing therapy for peptic ulcers involves a combination of managing the patient's current...

