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Non-aspergillus aspergilloma
American Journal of Clinical Pathology
|December 1, 1982
Summary
A lung cavity with a fungus ball, likely Pseudallescheria boydii, was found in a patient treated for tuberculosis. This case highlights the importance of immunodiffusion tests for diagnosing fungal infections in lung cavities.
Area of Science:
- Medical Mycology
- Pulmonology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Tuberculosis (TB) treatment can lead to secondary complications.
- Fungal infections, such as aspergilloma, can develop in pre-existing lung cavities.
- Accurate diagnosis of fungal etiologies is crucial for effective patient management.
Observation:
- A patient with a history of tuberculosis presented with a lung cavity.
- Initial fungal serologic tests for common fungi were negative.
- The patient experienced episodes of hemoptysis, necessitating surgical intervention.
Findings:
- Surgical resection revealed a fungus ball composed of numerous hyphae, consistent with an aspergilloma.
- Fungal cultures from the surgical specimen were negative.
- Pre-operative immunodiffusion studies were positive for Pseudallescheria boydii, aiding in diagnosis.
Implications:
- This case underscores the potential for Pseudallescheria boydii to cause pulmonary fungal balls.
- Negative results from standard fungal serology do not exclude all fungal infections.
- Immunodiffusion testing can be a valuable tool for diagnosing rare fungal infections in pulmonary cavities.