A Rare Case of Invasive Aspergillosis of the Pituitary Gland in a Young Immunocompetent Host: Diagnostic Pitfalls and Postoperative Complications

Cureus. 2024 Jul 26;16(7):e65470. doi: 10.7759/cureus.65470. eCollection 2024 Jul.

Abstract

Invasive aspergillosis (IA) is a rare occurrence, but it should be considered in cases involving pituitary or sellar masses. Here, we present a unique case report of IA affecting the sellar region with para-sellar extension and bilateral carotid artery impingement, notably with minimal involvement of paranasal sinuses. The patient, a 16-year-old immunocompetent female from a developing country, presented without any comorbidities or classic risk factors typically associated with IA. Her initial symptoms included headaches, diplopia, and nausea. Clinically and radiologically, the patient was initially diagnosed with either craniopharyngioma or pituitary macroadenoma. Hormonal studies revealed panhypopituitarism. Previous reports of IA have not described cases with these specific presentations, particularly in this age group and immune status.

Keywords: immunocompetent patients; invasive aspergillosis; para sellar extension; pituitary gland; sellar and para sellar tumors.

Publication types

  • Case Reports