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Histological Quantification to Determine Lung Fungal Burden in Experimental Aspergillosis
Published on: March 9, 2018
Cerebral aspergillosis
Background:
The diagnosis of intracerebral fungal abscesses may be difficult due to the paucity of laboratory tests and similar radiological appearance to other lesions.
Case Presentation:
We present an immunocompromised woman in her forties who was admitted with a diagnosis of bacterial meningitis. MRI examination showed findings suggestive of fungal abscesses, and a subsequent lumbar puncture showed PCR positive for non-fumigatus Aspergillus. The patient received antifungal treatment and had satisfactory clinical, biochemical and radiological response. Consecutive MRI examinations over the following weeks showed gradual decrease of abscesses, with almost complete resolution within 12 weeks.
Interpretation:
Adequate management of brain abscesses requires correct identification of the causative agent, so that proper treatment can be initiated as soon as possible. MRI plays an important role in distinguishing between pyogenic and fungal brain abscesses. Headaches or focal neurological deficits in immunocompromised patients should cause CNS fungal infection to be considered.
Insights
Diagnosing fungal brain abscesses is challenging. This case highlights successful treatment of a non-fumigatus Aspergillus brain abscess in an immunocompromised patient, emphasizing MRI
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Radiology
Background:
- Intracerebral fungal abscesses present diagnostic challenges due to limited lab tests and overlapping imaging features with other lesions.
- Distinguishing fungal from pyogenic brain abscesses is crucial for timely and effective treatment.
Observation:
- A case of a middle-aged immunocompromised woman initially diagnosed with bacterial meningitis.
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) revealed findings suggestive of fungal abscesses.
- Lumbar puncture confirmed non-fumigatus Aspergillus via PCR.
Findings:
- The patient received targeted antifungal therapy.
- Demonstrated positive clinical, biochemical, and radiological response to treatment.
- Serial MRI scans showed progressive resolution of abscesses over 12 weeks.
Implications:
- Early consideration of Central Nervous System (CNS) fungal infections is vital in immunocompromised patients presenting with neurological symptoms.
- MRI is instrumental in differentiating fungal from pyogenic brain abscesses.
- Prompt diagnosis and appropriate antifungal treatment lead to favorable outcomes in fungal brain abscesses.
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