Invasive cerebral aspergillosis in a pregnant woman: a rare case of intracranial giant granuloma

Abstract Background Invasive Cerebral Aspergillosis (ICA) is a rare fungal infection affecting the brain, primarily seen in individuals with compromised immune systems. Despite various treatment options, substantial cerebral granulomas caused by ICA still result in high mortality and recurrence rate...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Zhiwei Zhou, Xueqin Hu, Jingwen Wang, Nianhua Wang
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: BMC 2025-04-01
Series:BMC Infectious Diseases
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Online Access:https://doi.org/10.1186/s12879-025-10884-9
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Summary:Abstract Background Invasive Cerebral Aspergillosis (ICA) is a rare fungal infection affecting the brain, primarily seen in individuals with compromised immune systems. Despite various treatment options, substantial cerebral granulomas caused by ICA still result in high mortality and recurrence rates. Case presentation We report a rare instance of ICA in a 30-year-old pregnant woman. The infection initiated in the nasal cavity and progressed to form a large intracranial granuloma, leading to brain herniation. Diagnosis was confirmed through histopathology, Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR), and metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) following decompressive craniotomy and sinus window drainage surgery. Prompt administration of antifungal medication resulted in a favorable prognosis. Conclusion This case highlights the critical roles of mNGS and PCR in the early diagnosis of ICA, as well as the pivotal importance of surgical interventions and prompt initiation of antifungal therapy in enhancing patient outcomes.
ISSN:1471-2334