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Aspergillus and lung transplantation
V Yeldandi1, F Laghi, M A McCabe
1Department of Medicine, Stritch School of Medicine, Loyola University Medical Center, Maywood, Ill. 60153, USA.
Summary
Lung transplant recipients face a high risk of Aspergillus infection. While locally invasive cases responded to antifungal treatment, disseminated disease proved fatal, highlighting the need for preventative strategies.
Area of Science:
- Medical Mycology
- Transplantation Medicine
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Aspergillus infection is a recognized complication following organ transplantation.
- Lung transplant recipients are particularly susceptible to fungal infections.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the incidence, clinical manifestations, and outcomes of Aspergillus infections in lung transplant recipients.
- To identify risk factors associated with invasive aspergillosis in this patient population.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 37 lung transplant patients over two years.
- Categorization of patients based on clinical manifestations of Aspergillus infection (culture or biopsy evidence).
- Analysis of risk factors compared to other transplant recipients.
Main Results:
- The incidence of invasive aspergillosis was 16% among lung transplant recipients.
- Disseminated Aspergillus disease resulted in mortality for all affected patients.
- Locally invasive disease showed positive response to amphotericin B and itraconazole treatment.
Conclusions:
- Lung transplant recipients may exhibit a higher incidence of aspergillosis compared to other transplant groups.
- Effective prophylactic measures against Aspergillus infection in lung transplant candidates and recipients require further investigation.
- Early diagnosis and targeted antifungal therapy are crucial for managing locally invasive disease.