Aspergillosis Causing Orbital Subperiosteal Abscess in an Immunocompetent Child: A Rare Presentation

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Pediatrics
• Infectious Diseases
• Mycology

Background:

• Orbital abscesses are typically a complication of bacterial sinusitis in pediatric patients.
• Invasive fungal infections, such as aspergillosis, are less common causes of orbital abscesses, particularly in immunocompetent children.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a rare case of invasive aspergillosis presenting as an orbital abscess in an immunocompetent child.
• To emphasize the diagnostic and therapeutic approach for fungal orbital abscesses.

Main Methods:

• Case report detailing clinical presentation, diagnostic workup, and treatment.
• Histopathological and microbiological examination, including fungal culture, were performed.
• Surgical intervention followed by antifungal therapy was administered.

Main Results:

• A diagnosis of invasive aspergillosis was confirmed.
• The orbital abscess resolved successfully following surgical debridement and systemic antifungal treatment.
• The importance of considering fungal etiology in orbital infections was underscored.

Conclusions:

• Invasive aspergillosis can cause orbital abscesses even in immunocompetent children.
• Histopathological and microbiological evaluations, including fungal cultures, are essential for accurate diagnosis.
• Multimodal treatment involving surgery and antifungal therapy is effective.