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Case Reports
. 2015 Jun 29:2015:bcr2015210381.
doi: 10.1136/bcr-2015-210381.

An unusual case of invasive aspergillosis in an immunocompetent individual

Afsal P Mohammed  1 , Pushwinder Dhunputh  1 , Raghuvaran Chiluka  2 , Shashikiran Umakanth  3
Affiliations
Case Reports

An unusual case of invasive aspergillosis in an immunocompetent individual

Afsal P Mohammed et al. BMJ Case Rep. .

Abstract

Invasive aspergillosis is a highly lethal opportunistic infection that poses a significant threat to immunocompromised patients. With studies suggesting that the incidence of this disease is increasing, and mortality rates remain high, early diagnosis and treatment are very important to improve patient survival. We present the case of a 33-year-old immunocompetent woman who presented with a history of cough and severe breathlessness, and was diagnosed to have invasive aspergillosis. This case emphasises the importance of maintaining a high index of suspicion and also of remembering that invasive aspergillosis is no longer only a disease of immunocompromised individuals. In addition, this case tells us that aspergillosis is one of the new emerging infections in intensive care units.

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Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Left hemithorax homogeneous opacity.
Figure 2
Figure 2
Focal and patchy areas of consolidation (with areas of breakdown), ground glass attenuation and a few random nodules diffusely scattered in both lungs, the largest area being in left upper lobe. Bilateral mild pleural effusion.
Figure 3
Figure 3
Normal CT of the osteomeatal complex.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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