A case of invasive pulmonary aspergillosis during treatment for acute exacerbation of interstitial lung disease

Abstract

Prolonged immunosuppressive therapy is a risk factor for invasive pulmonary aspergillosis. We report a case of a 79-year-old man who underwent immunosuppressive therapy with methylprednisolone and cyclosporine for an acute exacerbation of interstitial lung disease. Ten days after initiation of immunosuppressive therapy, the patient reported night sweats and purulent sputum, and chest computed tomography scan revealed consolidation. He was diagnosed with invasive pulmonary aspergillosis, and required vasopressor support with oxygen therapy. After the administration of voriconazole and the modulation of immunosuppressive therapy, his condition improved. Short-term immunosuppressive therapy can also induce invasive pulmonary aspergillosis.