Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 18, 2025
Efficient Method for Imaging Murine Lungs that Preserves Spatial Dynamics of Fungal Spores in the Airways
Published on: December 13, 2024
Lung and sinus fungal infection imaging in immunocompromised patients
Frederic Lamoth1, Katya Prakash2, Catherine Beigelman-Aubry3
1Service of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland; Institute of Microbiology, Department of Laboratory Medicine and Microbiology, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland.
Background:
Imaging is a key diagnostic modality for suspected invasive pulmonary or sinus fungal disease and may help to direct testing and treatment. Fungal diagnostic guidelines have been developed and emphasize the role of imaging in this setting. We review and summarize evidence regarding imaging for fungal pulmonary and sinus disease (in particular invasive aspergillosis, mucormycosis and pneumocystosis) in immunocompromised patients.
Objectives:
We reviewed data on imaging modalities and findings used for diagnosis of invasive fungal pulmonary and sinus disease.
Sources:
References for this review were identified by searches of PubMed, Google Scholar, Embase and Web of Science through 1 April 1 2023.
Content:
Computed tomography imaging is the method of choice for the evaluation of suspected lung or sinus fungal disease. Although no computed tomography radiologic pattern is pathognomonic of pulmonary invasive fungal disease (IFD) the halo sign firstly suggests an angio-invasive pulmonary aspergillosis while the Reversed Halo Sign is more suggestive of pulmonary mucormycosis in an appropriate clinical setting. The air crescent sign is uncommon, occurring in the later stages of invasive aspergillosis in neutropenic patients. In contrast, new cavitary lesions should suggest IFD in moderately immunocompromised patients. Regarding sinus site, bony erosion, peri-antral fat or septal ulceration are reasonably predictive of IFD.
Implications:
Imaging assessment of the lung and sinuses is an important component of the diagnostic work-up and management of IFD in immunocompromised patients. However, radiological features signs have sensitivity and specificity that often vary according to underlying disease states. Periodic review of imaging studies and diagnostic guidelines characterizing imaging findings may help clinicians to consider fungal infections in clinical care thereby leading to an earlier confirmation and treatment of IFD.
Insights
Imaging plays a crucial role in diagnosing invasive fungal infections in immunocompromised patients. Specific CT findings like the halo sign can suggest aspergillosis or mucormycosis, aiding early treatment.
Area of Science:
- Medical Imaging
- Radiology
- Mycology
Background:
- Imaging is vital for diagnosing invasive pulmonary and sinus fungal disease.
- Fungal diagnostic guidelines highlight the importance of imaging.
- This review focuses on imaging for invasive aspergillosis, mucormycosis, and pneumocystosis in immunocompromised individuals.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and summarize evidence on imaging modalities and findings for diagnosing invasive fungal pulmonary and sinus disease.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature search of PubMed, Google Scholar, Embase, and Web of Science.
- Data collection focused on imaging modalities and diagnostic findings.
- Review conducted up to April 1, 2023.
Main Results:
- Computed tomography (CT) is the preferred imaging modality for suspected fungal lung or sinus disease.
- Specific CT signs like the halo sign (aspergillosis) and reversed halo sign (mucormycosis) are discussed.
- Sinus CT findings such as bony erosion and ulceration are predictive of fungal infection.
Conclusions:
- Imaging is essential for diagnosing and managing invasive fungal disease (IFD) in immunocompromised patients.
- Radiological signs vary in sensitivity and specificity based on patient conditions.
- Regularly reviewing imaging findings and guidelines can lead to earlier IFD diagnosis and treatment.
Related Concept Videos
01:30Radiological Investigation II: MRI and Ventilation Perfusion Scan
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Ventilation Perfusion Scans are two radiological investigations that offer detailed diagnostic images of the body, particularly lung structures.
MRI
MRI uses magnetic fields and radiofrequency signals to distinguish between normal and abnormal tissues. This technology provides a more detailed diagnostic image than CT scans, enabling it to characterize pulmonary nodules, stage bronchogenic carcinoma, and evaluate inflammatory activity in...
01:13Radiological Investigation III: Pulmonary Angiogram and PET Scan
Pulmonary Angiogram
A Pulmonary Angiogram is an invasive procedure involving injecting a contrast medium through a catheter threaded into the pulmonary artery or the right side of the heart to visualize the pulmonary vasculature. Computed Tomography (CT) scans have mainly replaced this...
01:30Pneumonia I: Introduction
Risk Factors
Various factors influence the likelihood of developing pneumonia. Age plays a crucial role, with infants, children under two, and individuals over 65 at increased risk due to their...
01:20Imaging Studies for Cardiovascular System III: X-Ray
Definition and Purpose
An X-ray, or radiograph, is a non-invasive method that uses ionizing radiation to take images of internal structures. It is mainly used in cardiac imaging to examine the heart, lungs, and major blood vessels, aiming to identify abnormalities in the heart's size, shape, and position, such as heart failure, congenital defects, and vascular...