Work

A Twist in the Tale: An Unexpected Pathogen in a Patient With a Cavitary Lung Lesion

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: lung abscess in a 58-year-old woman with myelodysplastic syndrome presenting with a cavitary lung lesion. The diagnostic workup was complicated by a false-positive galactomannan result, resulting in unnecessary medicamentous treatment and possible different therapeutic decisions. Management involved surgical resection regarding a necessary stem cell transplant and prolonged antibiotic (with monotherapy versus broad-spectrum) and antifungal therapy. This case highlights the need to consider atypical pathogens in immunocompromised patients, even when other findings suggest more common infections, and underscores the importance of a multidisciplinary approach and careful interpretation of laboratory results to guide appropriate management strategies.

Source: Cureus

DOI: 10.7759/cureus.85511

Authors: Thomas Van Den Bosch, Benedicte De Muynck, Peter Bomans, Nikki Granacher

Institution: Ziekenhuis aan de Stroom

Language: English

Topic: Actinomycetales infections and treatment

Subfield: Microbiology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: diamond

OpenAlex ID: W4411114909