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Allergic bronchopulmonary curvulariosis
The American Review of Respiratory Disease
|July 1, 1985
Summary
This study details a rare case of allergic bronchopulmonary disease caused by Curvularia lunata. Immunologic tests confirmed a significant allergic response to this fungal pathogen.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Immunology
- Pulmonology
Background:
- Allergic bronchopulmonary disease (ABPD) is a hypersensitivity disorder affecting the lungs.
- Fungal infections, particularly with Aspergillus fumigatus, are common causes of ABPD.
- ABPD caused by other fungi like Curvularia lunata is less common and requires specific diagnostic approaches.
Observation:
- A patient presented with recurrent pulmonary infiltrates and peripheral eosinophilia, suggestive of ABPD.
- Sputum cultures revealed the presence of Curvularia lunata.
- The patient exhibited elevated total serum IgE levels.
Findings:
- Intracutaneous skin testing with Curvularia lunata was positive.
- Serum precipitins against C. lunata were detected.
- Specific IgE and IgG antibody indexes against C. lunata were elevated, confirming an allergic immune response.
Implications:
- This case highlights Curvularia lunata as a potential pathogen in allergic bronchopulmonary disease.
- The findings emphasize the importance of comprehensive immunologic evaluation for diagnosing uncommon fungal-induced ABPD.
- Further research into fungal diversity in ABPD is warranted to improve diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.