Talcosis presenting as pulmonary infiltrates in an HIV-positive heroin addict

Abstract

A case of an HIV-positive young drug addict presenting with fever, respiratory distress, and pulmonary infiltrates is reported. Pulmonary talcosis was diagnosed by transbronchial biopsy. The differential diagnosis of pulmonary infiltrates in HIV-positive patients is reviewed and the predisposition of drug addicts to develop both HIV infection, as well as pulmonary talcosis, is discussed. Pulmonary talcosis must be considered in the differential diagnosis of pulmonary infiltrates of HIV-positive drug addicts.