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Aspergilloma in an Immunocompetent Host: A Case Report
Hamad AlShaheen1, Yacoub Abuzied2, Hosam Aldalbahi3
1Infectious Disease and Internal Medicine, Medical Specialties Department, King Fahad Medical City, Riyadh, SAU.
Cureus
|July 24, 2023
Summary
This case report details a rare instance of Aspergillus niger lung infection in an immunocompetent patient. It highlights the importance of considering aspergilloma in individuals without typical risk factors.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonology
- Mycology
- Radiology
Background:
- Aspergillosis, a lung disease caused by Aspergillus, typically affects immunocompromised individuals.
- Pulmonary manifestations range from allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis to invasive aspergillosis.
Observation:
- A 50-year-old female with well-controlled type 2 diabetes presented with shortness of breath, cough, and weight loss.
- High-resolution CT revealed a large cavitary lesion in the right upper lung.
- Sputum and bronchoalveolar lavage confirmed Aspergillus niger infection and positive Aspergillus galactomannan.
Findings:
- Aspergillus niger lung infection is infrequent, especially in immunocompetent hosts.
- The patient, despite having diabetes, was not on immunosuppressive therapy.
- The findings suggest aspergilloma can occur in immunocompetent individuals with lung cavities.
Implications:
- This case underscores the need to consider aspergilloma in immunocompetent patients presenting with pulmonary cavities.
- Further research through retrospective data registries is recommended to understand clinicopathological behaviors.
- Improved management strategies for aspergilloma in immunocompetent hosts may be developed.
