Objective: To report a case of pemphigus complicated by pulmonary infection due to Ochroconis gallopava, the first such case in China.
Methods: A male pemphigus patient with pulmonary symptoms, aged 68, received a needle biopsy under CT scan. The materials obtained from the lung cavity were cultured on Sabouraud dextrose agar in four test tubes.
Results: Fungal colonies of the same characteristics grew on the slant of the 4 test tubes 3 days after culture. The colonies were brown-green with a downy surface. Diffuse red-brown pigment was seen in the reverse side of the culture medium. Microscopy revealed septate and clavate mycelia and two-celled conidia with the apical cell being wider than the basal cell. The fungus was identified as Ochroconis gallopava by Dr A.A. Padhye (CDC). Amphotericin B liposome was given at hte dose of 50 approximately 75 approximately 100 mg/d for more than one month Then itraconazole was given for about one year. The cavity in the lung became smaller in diameter and the symptoms were ameliorated soon after pharmacotherapy. Examination about one year later showed fibrosis.
Conclusion: Case of pulmonary fungal infection caused by Ochroconis gallopava has been reported for the first time in China. Amphotericin B liposome has good effect on infection of Ochroconis gallopava.