Invasive Aspergillosis after H1N1 Pandemic
Author Information
Author(s): Asma Lat, Nahid Bhadelia, Benjamin Miko, E. Yoko Furuya, George R. Thompson III
Primary Institution: New York–Presbyterian Hospital, New York, New York, USA
Hypothesis
Influenza viruses may predispose otherwise immunocompetent patients to invasive aspergillosis due to immunologic defects and corticosteroid use.
Conclusion
Invasive aspergillosis can occur in immunocompetent patients following H1N1 infection, highlighting the need for awareness and early treatment.
Supporting Evidence
- Influenza viruses can cause immunologic defects that may lead to invasive aspergillosis.
- High-dose corticosteroids used during ARDS treatment may increase the risk of invasive fungal infections.
- Mortality rates for invasive aspergillosis in patients with COPD and ICU patients are very high.
Takeaway
Some people can get a serious fungal infection after having the flu, even if they are normally healthy.
Methodology
Case reports of two patients with invasive aspergillosis following H1N1 infection.
Limitations
The study is based on only two case reports, limiting generalizability.
Participant Demographics
Two male patients, aged 28 and 51, with no unusual medical histories.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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