Usual interstitial pneumonia associated with cytomegalovirus infection after percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty

Abstract

An unusual case of cytomegalovirus (CMV) pneumonia in a diabetic patient is presented. The diagnosis was based on typical histopathological findings including intranuclear inclusion bodies combined with molecular identification of CMV in tissue specimens. The possibility of CMV reactivation associated with a previous cardiac procedure, which led to the development of usual interstitial pneumonia, is discussed. Clinicians should be aware of CMV-associated severe bilateral pneumonia developing after cardiac procedures even in non-transplant patients. The correct diagnosis depends on clinical awareness in the appropriate setting along with proof of viral infection. © Springer-Verlag 2004.