Aspergillus terreus Causing Probable Invasive Aspergillosis in a Patient with Cystic Fibrosis

Mycopathologia. 2019 Feb;184(1):151-154. doi: 10.1007/s11046-018-0294-1. Epub 2018 Aug 30.

Abstract

Aspergillus terreus may colonize the airways of patients with cystic fibrosis (CF). Whether this merits antifungal treatment is still unclear due to heterogeneous reports regarding its pathogenic potential. Although allergic manifestations are documented, invasive aspergillosis (IA) caused by A. terreus has not been described. We present here one case of probable IA caused by A. terreus, highlighting its role as an emerging agent of IA in CF patients. Voriconazole was effective, and the patient was healthy after 12 weeks of treatment. Serial determination of serum galactomannan level and periodic cultures from respiratory specimens may help in monitoring CF patients by identifying such pathogens. Further studies on the fungal species colonizing the CF airways are warranted, especially in India. This case report suggests A. terreus as a potential agent of IA which should not be ignored, particularly in this patient group.

Keywords: Aspergillus terreus; Cystic fibrosis; Emerging; Invasive aspergillosis.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Antifungal Agents / administration & dosage
  • Aspergillus / classification
  • Aspergillus / isolation & purification*
  • Child
  • Cystic Fibrosis / complications*
  • Drug Monitoring
  • Galactose / analogs & derivatives
  • Humans
  • India
  • Invasive Pulmonary Aspergillosis / diagnosis*
  • Invasive Pulmonary Aspergillosis / drug therapy
  • Invasive Pulmonary Aspergillosis / microbiology
  • Invasive Pulmonary Aspergillosis / pathology*
  • Male
  • Mannans / blood
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Voriconazole / administration & dosage

Substances

  • Antifungal Agents
  • Mannans
  • galactomannan
  • Voriconazole
  • Galactose