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Invasive pulmonary aspergillosis associated with aspergilloma in sarcoidosis
Southern Medical Journal
|February 1, 1983
Abstract:
We have described two patients with corticosteroid-treated sarcoidosis and with autopsy-proven aspergilloma and diffuse invasive pulmonary aspergillosis. In one, growth of the fungus within a cyst was probably followed by progression to diffuse pulmonary infection. In the second, lung necrosis from invasive infection may have led to the formation of the mycetoma found at autopsy.
Insights
Corticosteroid treatment for sarcoidosis can lead to invasive pulmonary aspergillosis and aspergilloma. These fungal infections may progress from cyst colonization or lung necrosis in patients with sarcoidosis.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonology
- Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Sarcoidosis is an inflammatory disease that can affect the lungs.
- Corticosteroids are commonly used to manage sarcoidosis.
- Fungal infections, such as aspergillosis, can be opportunistic in immunocompromised individuals.
Observation:
- Two patients with corticosteroid-treated sarcoidosis developed autopsy-proven aspergilloma and invasive pulmonary aspergillosis.
- In one patient, fungal growth within a lung cyst preceded diffuse pulmonary infection.
- In the second patient, lung necrosis from invasive aspergillosis may have led to mycetoma formation.
Findings:
- Autopsy confirmed invasive pulmonary aspergillosis and aspergilloma in both patients.
- The clinical course suggests a potential progression from fungal colonization within cysts to widespread infection.
- Lung necrosis associated with invasive aspergillosis might predispose to mycetoma development.
Implications:
- Highlights a severe complication of corticosteroid therapy in sarcoidosis patients.
- Underscores the importance of monitoring for opportunistic fungal infections in this population.
- Suggests potential pathways for the development of aspergilloma and invasive aspergillosis in sarcoidosis.