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Published on: August 13, 2017
Voriconazole-induced periostitis post lung transplantation
Orla M Murray1,2, John P Hynes1, Michelle A Murray3
1Department of Radiology, Mater Misericordiae University Hospital, Eccles Street, Dublin 7, Ireland.
Abstract:
Voriconazole is a broad-spectrum triazole antifungal used to treat invasive fungal infections. It is commonly used prophylactically in immunocompromized patient cohorts, including transplant recipients. Diffuse periostitis is a very rare complication of chronic voriconazole use. It is associated with diffuse bone pain, elevated serum alkaline phosphatase and fluorine levels. Characteristic imaging findings include periosteal thickening with a dense, nodular, irregular and often bilateral pattern. We describe the case of a 71-year-old female who presented with multifocal bone pain six years following double lung transplantation. Her post transplantation course had been complicated by a life threatening episode of sepsis secondary to Scedosporium apiospermum, a rare invasive fungal infection following which lifelong prophylaxis with oral Voriconazole was commenced. We discuss the characteristic clinical and imaging manifestations of this rare condition.
Insights
Chronic voriconazole use can lead to diffuse periostitis, a rare complication in transplant recipients. This condition presents with bone pain and characteristic imaging findings, requiring careful monitoring.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Rheumatology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Voriconazole is a broad-spectrum triazole antifungal crucial for treating invasive fungal infections, particularly in immunocompromised patients like transplant recipients.
- Diffuse periostitis is an exceptionally rare adverse effect associated with prolonged voriconazole therapy.
- This condition is characterized by diffuse bone pain, elevated serum alkaline phosphatase, and increased fluorine levels.
Observation:
- A 71-year-old female lung transplant recipient developed multifocal bone pain.
- The patient had a history of severe sepsis from Scedosporium apiospermum requiring lifelong voriconazole prophylaxis.
- Clinical presentation included diffuse bone pain, elevated alkaline phosphatase, and hyperfluoridosis.
Findings:
- The patient exhibited diffuse periostitis, a very rare complication of long-term voriconazole therapy.
- Radiographic imaging revealed characteristic periosteal thickening with a dense, nodular, irregular, and bilateral pattern.
- Laboratory findings showed elevated serum alkaline phosphatase and fluorine levels.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of recognizing diffuse periostitis as a potential complication of chronic voriconazole therapy.
- Early diagnosis through characteristic clinical and imaging findings is crucial for managing this rare adverse effect.
- Understanding this complication may inform long-term monitoring strategies for patients on prolonged voriconazole prophylaxis.
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