The Korean journal of internal medicine

The Korean Association of Internal Medicine (대한내과학회)
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Sudden Atelectasis and Respiratory Failure in a Neutropenic Patient: Atypical Presentation of Pseudomembranous Necrotizing Bronchial Aspergillosis

  • Noh, Ji Yun (Department of Internal Medicine, Korea University Medical Center) ;
  • Kim, Seok Jin (Department of Internal Medicine, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine) ;
  • Kang, Eun Hae (Department of Internal Medicine, Korea University Medical Center) ;
  • Seo, Bo Kyoung (Department of Radiology, Korea University Medical Center) ;
  • Rho, Kyoung Ho (Department of Laboratory Medicine, Korea University Medical Center) ;
  • Chae, Yang-Seok (Department of Pathology, Korea University Medical Center) ;
  • Kim, Byung Soo (Department of Internal Medicine, Korea University Medical Center)
  • Published : 2012.12.01
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Abstract

Pseudomembranous necrotizing bronchial aspergillosis (PNBA) is a rare form of invasive aspergillosis with a very poor prognosis. The symptoms are non-specific, and the necrotizing plugs cause airway obstruction. Atelectasis and respiratory failure can be the initial manifestations. Recently, we treated an immunocompromised patient with PNBA, who presented with a sudden onset of atelectasis and acute respiratory failure. There were no preceding signs except for a mild cough and one febrile episode. Bronchoscopy revealed PNBA, and Aspergillus nidulans was cultured from the bronchial wash.

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References

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