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Spontaneous Mediastinal Abscess in a Patient With Asthma Under Low Dose Steroid: A Case Report

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Spontaneous mediastinal abscess with an occult source of infection is extremely rare and presents a diagnostic challenge. We report a unique case of a 60-year-old asthmatic patient who developed a spontaneous mediastinal abscess while receiving low-dose prednisolone (5 mg daily). Although such a dose is generally considered to have minimal immunosuppressive effects, the patient presented with severe systemic inflammation and a multiloculated abscess around the pericardium. The patient was successfully treated with a combination of surgical intervention and targeted antibiotics. This case highlights that even low-dose steroids can predispose patients to life-threatening spontaneous mediastinal infections, necessitating early recognition and aggressive management.

Source: Respirology Case Reports

DOI: 10.1002/rcr2.70616

Author: Min Kyun Kang

Institutions: Inje University, Inje University Haeundae Paik Hospital

Language: English

Topic: Otolaryngology and Infectious Diseases

Subfield: Infectious Diseases

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,130