Histoplasmosis in a fingolimod-treated patient: case report and scoping review

Rev Inst Med Trop Sao Paulo. 2024 Jul 8:66:e39. doi: 10.1590/S1678-9946202466039. eCollection 2024.

Abstract

Fingolimod is a sphingosine-1-phosphate receptor modulator used to treat multiple sclerosis. While fingolimod has been associated with an increased risk of cryptococcal meningitis, its correlation with other deep mycoses remains unclear. In this study, we conducted a scoping review of fingolimod associated with histoplasmosis, based on a case report, a literature review, and data from the FDA Adverse Events Reporting System (FAERS) as of January 24th, 2023. A 30-year-old Brazilian woman diagnosed with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis, receiving a daily dose of 0.5 mg of fingolimod, presented with a two-month history of fever and unintended weight loss, accompanied by lymphadenopathy, splenomegaly, and lung involvement was investigated. Biopsy of a lung nodule revealed fungal structures suggestive of Histoplasma sp. Additionally, serological testing yielded positive for Histoplasma capsulatum. Disseminated histoplasmosis should be considered in the differential diagnosis of febrile syndromes in patients undergoing fingolimod therapy for multiple sclerosis, particularly in the Americas, where this mycosis is endemic. Treatment with itraconazole and modification of immunotherapy can achieve excellent clinical outcomes.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Antifungal Agents / adverse effects
  • Antifungal Agents / therapeutic use
  • Female
  • Fingolimod Hydrochloride* / adverse effects
  • Histoplasma
  • Histoplasmosis* / diagnosis
  • Histoplasmosis* / drug therapy
  • Humans
  • Immunosuppressive Agents / adverse effects
  • Multiple Sclerosis, Relapsing-Remitting* / drug therapy

Substances

  • Fingolimod Hydrochloride
  • Antifungal Agents
  • Immunosuppressive Agents