Necrotising pneumonia caused by Curvularia hawaiiensis (syn. Bipolaris hawaiiensis) and Mycobacterium tuberculosis coinfection in a patient with ascariasis: a case report and review

Ann Clin Microbiol Antimicrob. 2023 May 13;22(1):36. doi: 10.1186/s12941-023-00593-z.

Abstract

Introduction: Curvularia hawaiiensis (formerly Bipolaris hawaiiensis) is a plant pathogen often isolated from soil and vegetative material. However, only a few cases of opportunistic invasive infections in humans have been described.

Case: A 16-year-old female patient without comorbidities was admitted to the emergency department because of fever and chest pain. We described the first coinfection of Curvularia hawaiiensis and Mycobacterium tuberculosis necrotising pneumonia.

Discussion: Multiple infections can alter immune responses. However, immunosuppression is the most critical risk factor for infection with species of the genus Curvularia. Therefore, it is crucial to carefully examine patients with tuberculosis, as they may rarely be coinfected with unusual fungi.

Keywords: Ascariasis; Coinfection; Curvularia hawaiiensis (syn. Bipolaris hawaiiensis); Necrotising pneumonia; Tuberculosis.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Ascariasis*
  • Coinfection* / diagnosis
  • Curvularia
  • Humans
  • Mycobacterium tuberculosis*
  • Pneumonia, Necrotizing*

Supplementary concepts

  • Curvularia hawaiiensis