Histoplasmosis-induced ileal perforation in a patient with acquired immune deficiency syndrome: Case report

Abstract

Intestinal involvement with disseminated histoplasmosis is common in some populations infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS), especially in those who come from tropical zones. We report the case of a 29-year-old male patient, from a tropical zone, with HIV infection and a CD4 value less than 50 cells/mm3, with a history of abdominal pain, fever, diarrhea, and weight loss. On presentation, he was pale, sweaty, and had abdominal rebound tenderness. Laboratory findings demonstrated microcitic hipocromic anemia, azoemia, and hypoalbuminemia. Abdominal-X-rays revealed pneumoperitoneum and air fluid levels. He underwent surgery, and a 1-cm perforation proximal to ileocecal valve was found. A resection and an ileostomy were performed. Histopathology identified caseating granulomas with yeast, compatible with histoplasmosis. He was treated with anfotericin B plus itraconazol with clinical improvement.