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Peng G, Lin Y, Zou Q, Peng H, Lei A, Zou X, Xu Z, Sun H, Ning X, Huang M. Malassezia restricta as an unexpected cause of infectious osteomyelitis diagnosed by metagenomic sequencing: a case report and literature review. BMC Infect Dis 2024; 24:643. [PMID: 38926679 PMCID: PMC11210095 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-024-09512-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 06/13/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Malassezia restricta, a lipophilic and lipodependent yeast belonging to the basidiomycetes group, is an opportunistic fungal pathogen associated with various skin diseases, including seborrheic dermatitis and dandruff. Typically, Malassezia infection in neonates manifests as fungemia or hematogenous dissemination to the bone or lungs. However, vertebral osteomyelitis caused by these fungi is rarely reported owing to non-specific clinical presentations and laboratory/imaging findings. The Pathogen Metagenomics Sequencing (PMseq) technique enables direct high-throughput sequencing of infected specimens, facilitating the rapid and accurate detection of all microorganisms in clinical samples through comprehensive reports. CASE PRESENTATION A 52-year-old male was admitted to our hospital on July 20, 2022 with a 3-month history of ambulatory difficulties and localized low back pain. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) examination of the spinal column revealed irregular bone destruction affecting the L2, L3, and L5 vertebral bodies. Additionally, low T1 and high T2 intensity lesions were observed at the intervertebral discs between L3 and L5. The presumptive diagnosis of tuberculous spondylitis was made based on the imaging findings, despite negative results in all mycobacterium tests. However, the patient exhibited no improvement after receiving regular anti-tuberculosis treatment for 3 months. Subsequent MRI revealed an expansive abnormal signal within the vertebral body, leading to progressive bone destruction. The absence of spinal tuberculosis or other infective microorganisms was confirmed through culture from blood and pathological tissue from the L4 vertebral body. Subsequently, PMseq was performed on the specimens, revealing M. restricta as the predominant pathogen with the highest relative abundance value. The pathological examination revealed the presence of fungal mycelium in the L4 vertebral body, with positive findings on periodic Schiff-methenamine and periodic acid-Schiff staining. The anti-tuberculosis treatment was discontinued, and an antifungal combination of fluconazole and voriconazole was administered. All symptoms were resolved after 7 consecutive months of treatment, and the patient was able to ambulate autonomously. Vertebral lesions were reduced on MRI during the 13-month follow-up. CONCLUSIONS M. restricta is not a commonly recognized pathogen associated with infectious vertebral osteomyelitis. However, PMseq can aid in diagnosis, timely treatment, and decision making for some non-specific infectious diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guoxuan Peng
- Department of Orthopaedics, Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550001, Guizhou, China
| | - Yuan Lin
- Department of Orthopaedics, Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550001, Guizhou, China
- School of Clinical Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550001, Guizhou, China
| | - Qiang Zou
- Department of Orthopaedics, Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550001, Guizhou, China
| | - Hongcheng Peng
- Department of Orthopaedics, Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550001, Guizhou, China
- School of Clinical Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550001, Guizhou, China
| | - Anyi Lei
- Department of Orthopaedics, Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550001, Guizhou, China
- School of Clinical Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550001, Guizhou, China
| | - Xu Zou
- Department of Orthopaedics, Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550001, Guizhou, China
- School of Clinical Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550001, Guizhou, China
| | - Zhe Xu
- School of Clinical Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550001, Guizhou, China
- Guihang Guiyang Hospital, Guiyang, 550006, Guizhou, China
| | - Hong Sun
- Department of Orthopaedics, Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550001, Guizhou, China
| | - Xu Ning
- Department of Orthopaedics, Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550001, Guizhou, China
| | - Mingzhi Huang
- Department of Orthopaedics, Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550001, Guizhou, China.
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Dong S, Lin Q, Dai X, Lin Z. An immunocompetent host with blood-disseminated Aspergillus versicolor spondylitis: a case report and literature review. J Int Med Res 2024; 52:3000605241234574. [PMID: 38597095 PMCID: PMC11010765 DOI: 10.1177/03000605241234574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Blood-disseminated Aspergillus spondylitis in immunocompetent individuals is rare. The clinical, imaging, and pathological manifestations of this condition are not specific. Therefore, this disease is prone to misdiagnosis and a missed diagnosis. Systemic antifungal therapy is the main treatment for Aspergillus spondylitis. We report a case of blood-disseminated Aspergillus versicolor spondylitis in a patient with normal immune function. The first antifungal treatment lasted for 4 months, but Aspergillus spondylitis recurred a few months later. A second antifungal treatment course was initiated for at least 1 year, and follow-up has been ongoing. Currently, there has been no recurrence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuangxia Dong
- Department of Respiratory, The Wenzhou Central Hospital and Dingli Clinical Institute of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Qianding Lin
- Department of Respiratory, The Wenzhou Central Hospital and Dingli Clinical Institute of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Xinjian Dai
- Department of Respiratory, The Wenzhou Central Hospital and Dingli Clinical Institute of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Zhou Lin
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, The Wenzhou Central Hospital and Dingli Clinical Institute of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
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Karmilkar K, Patel A, Vaughn TM. Navigating the Diagnostic Challenge of Aspergillus Spinal Epidural Abscess in an Immunocompetent Patient: A Case Report and Literature Review. Cureus 2023; 15:e42770. [PMID: 37663990 PMCID: PMC10469057 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.42770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Aspergillus spinal epidural abscess (ASEA) is a rare, life-threatening condition that can cause spinal cord compression with neurologic deficits. The diagnosis of ASEA can be challenging due to the atypical clinical presentation and low prevalence. We describe the successful management of a rare, immunocompetent, 85-year-old male with ASEA at the T12-L1 and L1-L2 levels and present a review of the literature. Based on most case reports and our knowledge, this is a rare presentation of ASEA in a patient without systemic symptoms, leukocytosis, or a history of immunosuppressive status due to chronic steroid use. The patient presented with multiple falls and lower extremity paraparesis with near-complete paralysis of the right lower extremity for a duration of three months. Systemic symptoms of infection were absent and standard lab evaluations were unremarkable. CT imaging identified cord signal changes at the level of T10-T11 and a contrast block at L1 suspicious for spinal stenosis and impingement. During lumbar spine exploration, purulent fluid consistent with an abscess was found in the epidural space. Cultures were forwarded to microbiology and returned with Aspergillus. Postoperatively, Infectious Disease (ID) recommended treatment with voriconazole, cefepime, and vancomycin, which yielded gradual symptom improvement. The successful management of ASEA requires a multidisciplinary approach involving neurosurgeons, infectious disease specialists, radiologists, and physical therapists. Clinicians should be aware of the possibility of ASEA regardless of systemic symptoms, and early diagnosis and prompt treatment with surgical decompression and appropriate antifungal therapy are imperative for successful management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kunal Karmilkar
- Medicine, Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine (VCOM) - Louisiana, Monroe, USA
| | - Aditi Patel
- Medicine, Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine (VCOM) - Louisiana, Monroe, USA
| | - Troy M Vaughn
- Neurological Surgery, Alexandria Neurosurgical Clinic, Alexandria, USA
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Mereuta VD, Sava A, Stan CI, Eva L, Dumitrescu GF, Dobrin N, Tudorache C, Chiriac A, Strambu IR, Chiran DA, Dumitrescu AM. Cervico-Dorsal Intramedullary Spinal Cord Abscess with Aspergillus fumigates following Pulmonary Infection in an Immunocompetent Patient. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2023; 59:medicina59040806. [PMID: 37109764 PMCID: PMC10143747 DOI: 10.3390/medicina59040806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2023] [Revised: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023]
Abstract
Invasive forms of aspergillosis of the nervous system are relatively rare and are usually diagnosed in immunocompromised patients. We present the case of a young female patient, treated in the last two months with corticosteroids and antifungal drug for pulmonary aspergillosis, who developed progressive paraparesis. An intramedullary abscess at the C7-D1 level was identified and the lesion was treated with a combination of surgery and antifungal therapy. Histopathologic findings of surgical specimens showed myelomalacia with Aspergillus hyphae and a peripheral rim of neutrophils. We consider that the use of multiple drugs and corticosteroids for our patient's initial community pneumonia could be the factor that transformed her into a mildly immunocompromised individual and permitted the Aspergillus spp. to disseminate through the blood and into the spinal cord. Moreover, we highlight the fact that more attention should be paid to living and working conditions of the patients, as a simple colonization of the lung with Aspergillus spp. could develop, in a short time, into an invasive disease with a high risk of mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vasile Deniss Mereuta
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, St. Spiridon" Emergency Clinical County Hospital, 700111 Iași, Romania
| | - Anca Sava
- Department of Morpho-Functional Sciences I, "Grigore T. Popa" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iași, Romania
- Department of Pathology, "Prof. Dr. N. Oblu" Emergency Clinical Hospital, 700309 Iași, Romania
| | - Cristinel Ionel Stan
- Department of Morpho-Functional Sciences I, "Grigore T. Popa" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iași, Romania
| | - Lucian Eva
- 2nd Neurosurgical Clinic, "Prof. Dr. N. Oblu" Emergency Clinical Hospital, 700309 Iași, Romania
| | | | - Nicolaie Dobrin
- 2nd Neurosurgical Clinic, "Prof. Dr. N. Oblu" Emergency Clinical Hospital, 700309 Iași, Romania
| | - Cornelia Tudorache
- Department of Radiology, "Prof. Dr. N. Oblu" Emergency Clinical Hospital, 700309 Iași, Romania
| | - Alexandru Chiriac
- 2nd Neurosurgical Clinic, "Prof. Dr. N. Oblu" Emergency Clinical Hospital, 700309 Iași, Romania
| | - Irina Ruxandra Strambu
- "Marius Nasta" Institute of Pneumology, 050159 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Pneumology, "Carol Davila", University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Dragos Andrei Chiran
- Department of Morpho-Functional Sciences I, "Grigore T. Popa" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iași, Romania
| | - Ana Maria Dumitrescu
- Department of Morpho-Functional Sciences I, "Grigore T. Popa" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iași, Romania
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Tsantes AG, Papadopoulos DV, Markou E, Zarokostas K, Sokou R, Trikoupis I, Mavrogenis AF, Houhoula D, Piovani D, Bonovas S, Tsantes AE, Tsakris A, Vrioni G. Aspergillus spp. osteoarticular infections: an updated systematic review on the diagnosis, treatment and outcomes of 186 confirmed cases. Med Mycol 2022; 60:myac052. [PMID: 35867975 PMCID: PMC9849853 DOI: 10.1093/mmy/myac052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2022] [Revised: 06/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Aspergillus spp. osteoarticular infections are destructive opportunistic infections, while there is no clear consensus on their management. The purpose of this review is to investigate the current literature regarding Aspergillus spp. osteoarticular infections. An electronic search of the PubMed and Scopus databases was conducted considering studies that assessed osteoarticular infections from Aspergillus spp. We included only studies with biopsy proven documentation of positive cultures or histological findings for Aspergillus spp., and those with essential information for each case such as the anatomical location of the infection, the type of treatment (conservative, surgical, combination), the antifungal therapy, and the outcome. Overall, 148 studies from 1965 to 2021 including 186 patients were included in the review. One hundred and seven (57.5%) patients underwent surgical debridement in addition to antifungal therapy, while 79 (42.7%) patients were treated only conservatively. Complete infection resolution was reported in 107 (57.5%) patients, while partial resolution in 29 (15.5%) patients. Surgical debridement resulted in higher complete infection resolution rate compared to only antifungal therapy (70.0% vs. 40.5%, P < 0.001), while complete resolution rate was similar for antifungal monotherapy and combination/sequential therapy (58.3% vs. 54.5%; P = 0.76). Last, complete resolution rate was also similar for monotherapy with amphotericin B (58.1%) and voriconazole (58.6%; P = 0.95). The results of this study indicate that antifungal monotherapy has similar efficacy with combination/sequential therapy, while voriconazole has similar efficacy with amphotericin B. Moreover, surgical debridement of the infected focus results in better outcomes in terms of infection eradication compared to conservative treatment. LAY SUMMARY Antifungal monotherapy has similar efficacy with combination/sequential therapy, and voriconazole has similar efficacy with amphotericin B for the treatment of Aspergillus spp. osteoarticular infections, while surgical debridement of the infected focus improves the infection eradication rate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas G Tsantes
- Department of Microbiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 15772 Athens, Greece
- Department of Microbiology, ‘Saint Savvas’ Oncology Hospital, 11522 Athens, Greece
| | | | - Eleftheria Markou
- Department of Microbiology, University Hospital of Ioannina, Ioannina 45500, Greece
| | | | - Rozeta Sokou
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, “Agios Panteleimon” General Hospital of Nikea, Piraeus 18454, Greece
| | - Ioannis Trikoupis
- First Department of Orthopaedics, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, School of Medicine, Athens 15772, Greece
| | - Andreas F Mavrogenis
- First Department of Orthopaedics, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, School of Medicine, Athens 15772, Greece
| | - Dimitra Houhoula
- Laboratory of Haematology and Blood Bank Unit, “Attiko” Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens 15772, Greece
| | - Daniele Piovani
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, 20090 Pieve MI, Milan, Italy
- IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano 20089 MI, Milan, Italy
| | - Stefanos Bonovas
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, 20090 Pieve MI, Milan, Italy
- IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano 20089 MI, Milan, Italy
| | - Argirios E Tsantes
- Laboratory of Haematology and Blood Bank Unit, “Attiko” Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens 15772, Greece
| | - Athanasios Tsakris
- Department of Microbiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 15772 Athens, Greece
| | - Georgia Vrioni
- Department of Microbiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 15772 Athens, Greece
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Xiang Y, Emu Q, Wang L, Wei Y, Xing L, Zhang L, Wang H. Analysis of spleen of mice (Mus musculus) infected with Aspergillus nidulans identifies immune-related genes. Microb Pathog 2022; 170:105705. [DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2022.105705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2022] [Revised: 07/23/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
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Mertens B, Van Daele R, Depypere M, Lagrou K, Debaveye Y, Wauters J, Nijs S, Metsemakers WJ, Spriet I. Isavuconazole in the Treatment of Aspergillus fumigatus Fracture-Related Infection: Case Report and Literature Review. Antibiotics (Basel) 2022; 11:antibiotics11030344. [PMID: 35326807 PMCID: PMC8944859 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics11030344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2022] [Revised: 02/21/2022] [Accepted: 02/25/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Aspergillus fracture-related infection (FRI) is a rare, but severe complication in trauma surgery. The optimal antifungal treatment for Aspergillus osteomyelitis, including FRI, has not been established yet, as only cases have been documented and data on bone penetration of antifungal drugs are scarce. We describe a patient with Aspergillus fumigatus FRI of the tibia who was treated with isavuconazole after developing liver function disturbances during voriconazole therapy. Isavuconazole, the active moiety formed after hydrolysis of the prodrug isavuconazonium sulfate by plasma esterases, was administered in a maintenance dose of 200 mg q24 h, followed by 150 mg q24 h. The patient completed a six-month antifungal treatment course. Although fracture union was not achieved during six months of follow-up after therapy cessation, no confirmatory signs of FRI were observed. Additionally, two literature searches were conducted to review available data on antifungal treatment of Aspergillus osteomyelitis and bone penetration of antifungals. One hundred and eight cases of Aspergillus osteomyelitis, including six (5.6%) FRI cases, were identified. Voriconazole and (lipid formulations of) amphotericin B were the most commonly used antifungals. In three (2.8%) cases isavuconazole was prescribed as salvage therapy. Data on antifungal bone penetration were reported for itraconazole, voriconazole, amphotericin B, anidulafungin and 5-fluorocytosin. Isavuconazole might be a promising alternative for the treatment of Aspergillus osteomyelitis. However, standardized case documentation is needed to evaluate the efficacy of isavuconazole and other antifungals in the treatment of Aspergillus osteomyelitis, including FRI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatrijs Mertens
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, KU Leuven, B-3000 Leuven, Belgium; (R.V.D.); (I.S.)
- Pharmacy Department, University Hospitals Leuven, B-3000 Leuven, Belgium
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +32-16-34-69-57
| | - Ruth Van Daele
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, KU Leuven, B-3000 Leuven, Belgium; (R.V.D.); (I.S.)
- Pharmacy Department, University Hospitals Leuven, B-3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Melissa Depypere
- Clinical Department of Laboratory Medicine, University Hospitals Leuven, B-3000 Leuven, Belgium; (M.D.); (K.L.); (J.W.)
| | - Katrien Lagrou
- Clinical Department of Laboratory Medicine, University Hospitals Leuven, B-3000 Leuven, Belgium; (M.D.); (K.L.); (J.W.)
- Belgian National Reference Center for Mycosis, University Hospitals Leuven, B-3000 Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, KU Leuven, B-3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Yves Debaveye
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, KU Leuven, B-3000 Leuven, Belgium;
- Intensive Care Unit, University Hospitals Leuven, B-3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Joost Wauters
- Clinical Department of Laboratory Medicine, University Hospitals Leuven, B-3000 Leuven, Belgium; (M.D.); (K.L.); (J.W.)
- Medical Intensive Care Unit, University Hospitals Leuven, B-3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Stefaan Nijs
- Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, B-3000 Leuven, Belgium; (S.N.); (W.-J.M.)
- Department of Trauma Surgery, University Hospitals Leuven, B-3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Willem-Jan Metsemakers
- Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, B-3000 Leuven, Belgium; (S.N.); (W.-J.M.)
- Department of Trauma Surgery, University Hospitals Leuven, B-3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Isabel Spriet
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, KU Leuven, B-3000 Leuven, Belgium; (R.V.D.); (I.S.)
- Pharmacy Department, University Hospitals Leuven, B-3000 Leuven, Belgium
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Umana G, Rashid M, Hossain M, Ahmed N, Kazi R, Ferini G, Palmisciano P, Scalia G, Hoz S, Chaurasia B. Aspergillus spinal epidural abscess: A case report and review of the literature. JOURNAL OF CRANIOVERTEBRAL JUNCTION AND SPINE 2022; 13:204-211. [PMID: 35837429 PMCID: PMC9274668 DOI: 10.4103/jcvjs.jcvjs_35_22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 04/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Aspergillus spinal epidural abscess (ASEA) is a rare entity that may mimic Pott's paraplegia as it commonly affects immunocompromised patients. We present one institutional case of ASEA with concomitant review of the literature. A 58-year-old female presented with intermittent low back pain for 10 years recently aggravated and with concurrent spastic paraparesis, fever, and weight loss. Emergent magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed T11–T12 epidural abscess with discitis and osteomyelitis. After empirical treatment with antibiotics, computed tomography-guided, percutaneous biopsy with drainage was performed, showing granulomatous tubercular-like collection. Antitubercular therapy was initiated, but after 1 month, the patient's condition deteriorated. Repeat MRI showed growth of the spinal epidural abscess with significant cord compression and vertebral osteomyelitis. T11–T12 laminectomy and tissue removal were performed with a posterior midline approach. Tissue histopathology showed necrotic debris colonies of Aspergillus spp. Antifungal therapy was started, and the patient rapidly improved. ASEA may mimic Pott's disease at imaging, leading to immediate start of antitubercular treatment without prior biopsy, leading to severe worsening of patients’ clinical status. Cases of ASEA should be considered at pretreatment planning, opting for biopsy confirmation before treatment initiation so to prevent the occurrence of fatal infection-related complications.
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Spondylodiscitis Caused by Aspergillus Species. Diagnostics (Basel) 2021; 11:diagnostics11101899. [PMID: 34679596 PMCID: PMC8534844 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics11101899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2021] [Revised: 10/10/2021] [Accepted: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Spondylodiscitis caused by Aspergillus spp. is a rare but life-threatening clinical entity. However, a consensus on diagnostic criteria and most effective medical management is still missing. The present study is a review of all published cases of spondylodiscitis caused by Aspergillus spp., in an effort to elucidate epidemiology, patients’ characteristics, andand the medical and surgical treatment options and their effectiveness. Methods: A thorough review of all existing spondylodiscitis cases caused by Aspergillus was performed. Data regarding demographics, responsible fungus, time between symptoms’ onset and firm diagnosis, antifungal treatment (AFT), surgical intervention, andand the infection’s outcome were investigated. Results: A total of 118 Aspergillus spondylodiscitis cases, yielding 119 Aspergillus spp. isolates, were identified in the literature. The patients’ mean age was 40.6 years. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) (after its introduction) indicated the diagnosis in most cases (66.7%), while definite diagnosis was established through cultures in the majority of cases (73.7%). Aspergillus fumigatus was isolated in most cases (73; 61.3%), followed by Aspergillus flavus (15; 12.6%) andand Aspergillus nidulans and terreus (7; 5.9%, each). The mean time between symptoms’ onset and diagnosis was 5.7 months. Amphotericin B was the preferred antifungal regiment (84 cases; 71.2%), followed by voriconazole (31; 26.3%), and the mean AFT duration was 6.1 months. The final outcome was successful in 93 cases (78.8%). Furthermore, 77 patients (65.3%) underwent surgery. Conclusions: Spondylodiscitis caused by Aspergillus spp. represents a clinical challenge, requiring a multidisciplinary approach. The present review has shown that prolonged AFT has been the standard of care of the studied cases, while surgical treatment seems to play an important role in selected patents.
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Perna A, Ricciardi L, Fantoni M, Taccari F, Torelli R, Santagada DA, Fumo C, Tamburrelli FC, Proietti L. Spontaneous Vertebral Aspergillosis, the State of Art: A Systematic Literature Review. Neurospine 2020; 18:23-33. [PMID: 33211946 PMCID: PMC8021829 DOI: 10.14245/ns.2040338.169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2020] [Accepted: 07/23/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective Vertebral aspergillosis is quite rare conditions, often misdiagnosed, that requires long-term antibiotic therapy, and sometimes, surgical treatments. The present investigations were aimed to investigate the epidemiology, clinical-radiological aspects, treatment protocols, and outcomes of Aspergillus-mediated vertebral osteomyelitis.
Methods A systematic review of the pertinent English literature according to the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines was performed. The research was conducted on Cochrane library, MEDLINE, PubMed, and Scopus using as search-terms “Aspergillus,” “vertebral osteomyelitis,” “spondylodiscitis,” “spine infection.” A case of vertebral aspergillosis conservatively managed was also reported.
Results Eighty-nine articles were included in our systematic review. Including the reported case, our analysis covered 112 cases of vertebral aspergillosis. Aspergillus fumigatus was isolated in 68 cases (61.2%), Aspergillus flavus in 14 (12.6%), Aspergillus terreus in 4 (3.6%), Aspergillus nidulans in 2 (1.8%). Seventy-three patients (65.7%) completely recovered at the last follow-up evaluation; in 7 patients (6.3%) radiological signs of chronic infection were reported, whereas 32 patients (28.8%) died during the follow-up.
Conclusion This systematic review summarized the state of the art on vertebral aspergillosis, retrieving data on clinical features, diagnostic criteria and current limitations, treatment alternatives, and their outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Perna
- UOC Chirurgia Vertebrale, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli - IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Luca Ricciardi
- UO di Neurochirurgia, Pia fondazione di Culto e Religione Cardinal G. Panico, Tricase, Italy.,UOC di Neurochirurgia, Azienda Ospedaliera Sant'Andrea, Dipartimento NESMOS, Facoltà di Medicina e Psicologia, Sapienza, Rome, Italy
| | - Massimo Fantoni
- Dipartimento di Scienze di Laboratorio e Infettivologiche, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario "A. Gemelli" IRCCS, Rome, Italy.,Dipartimento di Sicurezza e Bioetica, Università Cattolica S. Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Taccari
- Dipartimento di Sicurezza e Bioetica, Università Cattolica S. Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Riccardo Torelli
- Dipartimento di Scienze di Laboratorio e Infettivologiche, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario "A. Gemelli" IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Domenico Alessandro Santagada
- UOC Chirurgia Vertebrale, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli - IRCCS, Rome, Italy.,Istituto di clinica ortopedica, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Caterina Fumo
- UOC Chirurgia Vertebrale, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli - IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Ciro Tamburrelli
- UOC Chirurgia Vertebrale, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli - IRCCS, Rome, Italy.,Istituto di clinica ortopedica, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Luca Proietti
- UOC Chirurgia Vertebrale, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli - IRCCS, Rome, Italy.,Istituto di clinica ortopedica, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
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Dai G, Wang T, Yin C, Sun Y, Xu D, Wang Z, Luan L, Hou J, Li S. Aspergillus spondylitis: case series and literature review. BMC Musculoskelet Disord 2020; 21:572. [PMID: 32828133 PMCID: PMC7443290 DOI: 10.1186/s12891-020-03582-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Spinal fungal infections, especially spinal Aspergillus infections, are rare in the clinic. Here, we introduce the clinical features, diagnosis, treatment, and prognoses of 6 cases of Aspergillus spondylitis. METHODS We retrospectively analysed the complete clinical data of patients with Aspergillus spondylitis treated in our hospital from January 2013 to January 2020. RESULTS Aspergillus fumigatus was isolated in 4 cases, and Aspergillus spp. and Aspergillus niger were isolated in 1 case each. All six patients reported varying degrees of focal spinal pain; one patient reported radiating pain, one patient experienced bowel dysfunction and numbness in both lower limbs, and three patients had fever symptoms. One case involved the thoracic spine, one case involved the thoracolumbar junction, and 4 cases involved the lumbar spine. Three patients were already in an immunosuppressed state, and three patients entered an immunosuppressed state after spinal surgery. All six patients were successfully cured, and five required surgery. Of the 5 patients who underwent surgical treatment, 2 had spinal cord compression symptoms, and 3 had spinal instability. At the end of follow-up, 1 patient reported left back pain and 1 patient reported left limb numbness. CONCLUSION The clinical manifestations of Aspergillus spondylitis are non-specific, and the diagnosis depends on typical imaging findings and microbiological and histopathological examination results. When there is no spinal instability, spinal nerve compression symptoms, or progressive deterioration, antifungal therapy alone may be considered. If spinal instability, spinal nerve compression, or epidural abscess formation is present, surgery combined with antifungal therapy is recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guohua Dai
- Department of Spine Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, 16 jiangsu road, Shinan District, Qingdao City, Post Code: 266000, Shandong Province, China
| | - Ting Wang
- Department of Spine Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, 16 jiangsu road, Shinan District, Qingdao City, Post Code: 266000, Shandong Province, China.
| | - Chuqiang Yin
- Department of Spine Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, 16 jiangsu road, Shinan District, Qingdao City, Post Code: 266000, Shandong Province, China
| | - Yuanliang Sun
- Department of Spine Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, 16 jiangsu road, Shinan District, Qingdao City, Post Code: 266000, Shandong Province, China
| | - Derong Xu
- Department of Spine Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, 16 jiangsu road, Shinan District, Qingdao City, Post Code: 266000, Shandong Province, China
| | - Zhongying Wang
- Department of Spine Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, 16 jiangsu road, Shinan District, Qingdao City, Post Code: 266000, Shandong Province, China
| | - Liangrui Luan
- Department of Spine Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, 16 jiangsu road, Shinan District, Qingdao City, Post Code: 266000, Shandong Province, China
| | - Jianwen Hou
- Department of Spine Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, 16 jiangsu road, Shinan District, Qingdao City, Post Code: 266000, Shandong Province, China
| | - Shuzhong Li
- Department of Spine Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, 16 jiangsu road, Shinan District, Qingdao City, Post Code: 266000, Shandong Province, China.
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12
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Fungal spinal epidural abscess: a case series of nine patients. Spine J 2019; 19:516-522. [PMID: 30121322 DOI: 10.1016/j.spinee.2018.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2018] [Revised: 07/28/2018] [Accepted: 08/03/2018] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND CONTEXT Fungal spinal epidural abscess (FSEA) is a rare entity with high morbidity and mortality. Reports describing the clinical features, diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes of FSEA are scarce in the literature. PURPOSE This study aimed to describe the clinical features, diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes of FSEA. STUDY DESIGN This study is designed as a retrospective clinical case series. PATIENT SAMPLE A continuous series of patients with the diagnosis of FSEA who presented at our institution from 1993 to 2016. METHODS We reviewed the electronic medical records of patients with SEA who were treated within our hospital system from 1993 to 2016. We only included SEA cases that were due to fungi. We also reviewed FSEA cases in the English language literature from 1952 to 2017 to analyze the features of FSEA. RESULTS From a database of 1,053 SEA patients, we identified 9 patients with FSEA. Aspergillus fumigatus was isolated from 2 (22%) patients, and Candida species were isolated from 7 (78%). Focal spine pain, neurologic deficit, and fever were demonstrated in 89%, 50%, and 44% of FSEA cases, respectively. Five of nine cases involved the thoracic spine, and eight were located anterior to the thecal sac. Three cases had fungemia, six had long symptom duration (>2 weeks) prior to presentation, seven had concurrent immunosuppression, and eight had vertebral osteomyelitis. Additionally, one case had residual motor deficit at last follow-up, one had S1 sensory radicular symptoms, two suffered recurrent FSEA, two died within hospitalization, and two died within 90 days after discharge. CONCLUSIONS In summary, the classic diagnostic triad (focal spine pain, neurologic deficit, and fever) is not of great clinical utility for FSEA. Biopsy, intraoperative tissue culture, and blood culture can be used to diagnose FSEA. The most common pathogens of FSEA are Aspergillus and Candida species. Therefore, empiric treatment for FSEA should cover these species while definitive identification is pending. FSEA is found in patients with poor baseline health status, which is the essential reason for its high mortality.
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Shweikeh F, Zyck S, Sweiss F, Sangtani A, Shweikeh M, Issa H, Steinmetz MP, Markarian GZ. Aspergillus spinal epidural abscess: case presentation and review of the literature. Spinal Cord Ser Cases 2018. [PMID: 29531797 DOI: 10.1038/s41394-018-0046-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Study design In this review, we present a case of Aspergillus spinal epidural abscess (ASEA) and review the literature. Objectives To provide further insight on a rare condition. Setting A description of a patient with ASEA in a 58-year-old woman that was successfully treated with conservative management is presented. Methods Following case presentation, a literature search (MedLine and PubMed) and assessment of epidemiology, presentation, diagnosis, treatments, and outcomes is performed. Results Review of the literature finds 26 reported cases. The infection occurs in males with a higher frequency (66.7%). The thoracic and lumbar regions are more likely afflicted (96.1%). Common symptoms are backache, neurological deficits, and fever. Most frequent comorbidities were malignancy, diabetes mellitus, and immunodeficiency. Complications were numerous and often catastrophic. Treatment entailed a combination of antibiotics and surgery. Overall, ASEA patients did poorly: death in majority (52%), minimal recovery in 22%, and others did attain full recovery (26%). Conclusions Generally, this infection has high morbidity and mortality. Early identification is important to a successful outcome. Appropriate management with antifungals is central and proves to be effective as seen in the reported case though surgical intervention is usually a necessity as the literature suggests. From an epidemiological and public health perspective, particularly with recent outbreaks, understanding the treatment of this rare CNS infection becomes even more imperative.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faris Shweikeh
- 1Department of Neurosurgery, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA USA.,2Summa Health System, College of Medicine, Northeast Ohio Medical University, Rootstown, OH USA
| | - Stephanie Zyck
- 3Department of Neurosurgery, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY USA
| | - Fadi Sweiss
- 4Department of Neurological Surgery, George Washington University, Washington, DC USA
| | - Ajleeta Sangtani
- 1Department of Neurosurgery, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA USA
| | - Mohammed Shweikeh
- 5Family Medicine Center, St. Joseph's Hospital and Medical Center, Phoenix, AZ USA
| | - Husam Issa
- 6Memorial Hermann Hospital, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, TX USA
| | - Michael P Steinmetz
- 7Center for Spine Health, Department of Neurosurgery, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH USA
| | - Georges Z Markarian
- 1Department of Neurosurgery, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA USA
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Abstract
Spinal epidural abscess (SEA) remains a relatively infrequent diagnosis. Staphylococcus aureus is the most common organism identified, and the infectious source in SEA emanates from skin and soft tissue infections in about 20 % of instances. The thoracic spine is most often involved followed by the lumbar spine. The classic triad of fever, spinal pain, and neurological deficit is present in but a minority of patients. The appearance of neurological deficits with SEA has a significant impact on the prognosis; therefore, early diagnosis is imperative. Magnetic resonance imaging has permitted earlier diagnosis, although significant delays in diagnosis are common due to the nonspecific symptoms that frequently attend the disorder. Due to the rarity of this condition, there have been few randomized controlled trials to evaluate new treatment strategies, and most recommendations regarding treatment are based on case series studies often derived from the experiences at a single center.
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Atypical fungal vertebral osteomyelitis in a tsunami survivor of the Great East Japan Earthquake. Spine (Phila Pa 1976) 2014; 39:E739-42. [PMID: 24718064 DOI: 10.1097/brs.0000000000000317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
STUDY DESIGN Case report. OBJECTIVE We report a rare case of fungal vertebral osteomyelitis in a tsunami survivor of the Great East Japan Earthquake. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA Fungal vertebral osteomyelitis due to Scedosporium apiospermum (S. apiospermum) is extremely rare. We describe the case of a 45-year-old male who developed vertebral osteomyelitis by S. apiospermum 1 month after near drowning in the huge tsunami after the Great East Japan Earthquake. METHODS The patient was treated with a combination of percutaneous posterolateral endoscopic debridement and antifungal therapy. The case was evaluated with radiography and computed tomography, and his white blood cell count and C-reactive protein level in serum were measured 20 months after initiation of treatment. RESULTS The patient had no low back pain and both white blood cell count and C-reactive protein had remained normal. Radiographs and computed tomography of lumbar spine demonstrated sclerotic change of endplates and spur formation bridging the L3 and L4 vertebral bodies. CONCLUSION We report a rare case of the fungal vertebral osteomyelitis caused by S. apiospermum. If a patient develops severe back pain after a near-drowning episode in dirty water such as a swamp or a river, the clinician should be suspicious of the possibility of fungal spondylitis by S. apiospermum.
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Koehler P, Tacke D, Cornely OA. Aspergillosis of bones and joints - a review from 2002 until today. Mycoses 2014; 57:323-35. [DOI: 10.1111/myc.12165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2013] [Revised: 12/03/2013] [Accepted: 12/03/2013] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Philipp Koehler
- 1st Department of Internal Medicine; University Hospital of Cologne; Zentrum für Klinische Studien (BMBF 01KN1106); CECAD - Cologne Excellence Cluster on Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases; Cologne Germany
| | - Daniela Tacke
- 1st Department of Internal Medicine; University Hospital of Cologne; Zentrum für Klinische Studien (BMBF 01KN1106); CECAD - Cologne Excellence Cluster on Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases; Cologne Germany
| | - Oliver A. Cornely
- 1st Department of Internal Medicine; University Hospital of Cologne; Zentrum für Klinische Studien (BMBF 01KN1106); CECAD - Cologne Excellence Cluster on Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases; Cologne Germany
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