Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 12, 2025
Detection of Invasive Pulmonary Aspergillosis in Haematological Malignancy Patients by using Lateral-flow Technology
Published on: March 22, 2012
Rhino-Cerebral Aspergillosis in an Immunocompetent Patient
Jisun Won1, Carolina S Mena1, Joseph Glowacki2
1Abington Memorial Hospital, Department of Internal Medicine, USA.
Abstract:
Rhino-cerebral aspergillosis is a rare phenomenon describing a contiguous spread of Aspergillus species from the paranasal sinuses to the intracranial space. In this case report, we describe a case of invasive rhino-cerebral aspergillosis arising in the setting of prolonged intranasal steroid use in an 81-year-old patient with chronic sinusitis. This case report emphasizes the importance of recognizing steroid use as a risk factor for invasive aspergillosis in otherwise immunocompetent individuals.
Insights
Prolonged intranasal steroid use can lead to invasive rhino-cerebral aspergillosis, even in immunocompetent individuals. This case highlights steroids as a potential risk factor for this rare fungal infection.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
- Neurology
Background:
- Rhino-cerebral aspergillosis is a rare, contiguous spread of Aspergillus from sinuses to the brain.
- Invasive fungal infections are a growing concern, particularly in specific patient populations.
Observation:
- An 81-year-old patient with chronic sinusitis developed invasive rhino-cerebral aspergillosis.
- The patient had a history of prolonged intranasal steroid use.
Findings:
- Intranasal steroid use was identified as a significant risk factor.
- Aspergillus species spread contiguously from the paranasal sinuses to the intracranial space.
Implications:
- Clinicians should consider steroid use as a risk factor for invasive aspergillosis in immunocompetent patients.
- Early recognition and management of rhino-cerebral aspergillosis are crucial.
- This case underscores the need for vigilance regarding potential side effects of commonly used medications.
Related Concept Videos
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...
01:23Rheumatic Heart Disease I: Introduction
01:29Pulmonary Tuberculosis I
Causative Organism
The primary infectious agent causing tuberculosis is Mycobacterium tuberculosis, a slow-growing, acid-fast, aerobic rod that exhibits sensitivity to heat and ultraviolet light. Instances of Mycobacterium bovis and Mycobacterium avium contributing to the development of TB infection are rare.
Mode of...
01:25Transmission-based Precautions II: Airborne and Protective Environment
Airborne precautions:
Use airborne precautions when treating patients known or suspected to have diseases that spread through the air—for example, tuberculosis or measles. These organisms are present in smaller droplets expelled by an infected person and...