An unusual case of invasive aspergillosis in an immunocompetent individual

BMJ Case Rep. 2015 Jun 29:2015:bcr2015210381. doi: 10.1136/bcr-2015-210381.

Abstract

Invasive aspergillosis is a highly lethal opportunistic infection that poses a significant threat to immunocompromised patients. With studies suggesting that the incidence of this disease is increasing, and mortality rates remain high, early diagnosis and treatment are very important to improve patient survival. We present the case of a 33-year-old immunocompetent woman who presented with a history of cough and severe breathlessness, and was diagnosed to have invasive aspergillosis. This case emphasises the importance of maintaining a high index of suspicion and also of remembering that invasive aspergillosis is no longer only a disease of immunocompromised individuals. In addition, this case tells us that aspergillosis is one of the new emerging infections in intensive care units.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Antifungal Agents / therapeutic use
  • Aspergillosis* / diagnosis
  • Aspergillosis* / immunology
  • Aspergillosis* / microbiology
  • Aspergillus fumigatus*
  • Communicable Diseases, Emerging
  • Cough / diagnosis
  • Cough / microbiology
  • Dyspnea / diagnosis
  • Dyspnea / microbiology
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Immune System*
  • Immunocompromised Host
  • Intensive Care Units
  • Lung / microbiology*
  • Opportunistic Infections

Substances

  • Antifungal Agents