Aspergillus species are ubiquitous environmental molds that healthy humans encounter daily without any adverse effects. However, these molds can cause a range of diseases in immunocompromised individuals, collectively known as invasive aspergillosis. These diseases can affect the sinuses, tracheobronchial tree, lungs, skin, or disseminate. The most common form of invasive aspergillosis is invasive pulmonary aspergillosis, which has high morbidity and mortality rates and requires prompt diagnosis and treatment. A severe form, known as angioinvasive pulmonary aspergillosis, occurs when mold hyphae invade the pulmonary arteries and cause necrosis and hemorrhage of the lung parenchyma. We present such a case in a 17-year old boy with acute myeloid leukemia who developed pulmonary pseudoaneurysms as a complication. The patient was initially admitted to the hospital for scheduled chemotherapy. Several complications occurred, including neutropenic fevers, cough, and pleuritic chest pain, despite broad-spectrum antibiotics. Initial imaging with CT pulmonary angiography showed multifocal nodules and masses with surrounding groundglass opacities. Serum aspergillosis galactomannan and Fungitell were strongly positive. Bronchoalveolar lavage was not performed due to profound anemia and thrombocytopenia. Initial treatment included dual-antifungal therapy with continued treatment upon discharge. Follow-up CT exams demonstrated complications with multiple pseudoaneurysms necessitating repeat hospitalizations, coil embolization, and lobectomy. This case demonstrates classic CT findings of angioinvasive pulmonary aspergillosis, including the "halo" and “air crescent” signs. In our case, the patient developed complications with pulmonary pseudoaneurysms that required multiple interventions. Prompt diagnosis and treatment of this condition is important due to the life-threatening implications. Read More

Meeting name: SPR 2024 Annual Meeting & Postgraduate Course , 2024

Authors: Cristobal Alberto, Martinez-sicari Jorge, Vorona Gregory, Jones Kathryn, Austin Frances, Mahdi Eman

Keywords: Invasive aspergillosis, Pseudoaneurysm, Immunocompromised

Hydatid cysts caused by larval infection with the tapeworm Echinococcus granulosus commonly affect the liver and lungs, although other organ systems may also be involved. Patients may be asymptomatic for years, presenting only when there is cystic rupture. We present the case of a 12-year-old male with no known prior medical history whose family immigrated from Afghanistan to the United States three years earlier. The patient arrived as a transfer to the emergency department (ED) with acute abdominal pain following blunt trauma. While playing soccer, he collided with another player, who landed on his abdomen. Upon arrival to the ED, he was febrile, tachycardic, and endorsed diffuse abdominal tenderness to palpation. He had no recent fevers, cough, congestion, nausea, vomiting, night sweats, or weight loss. He denied recent travel. Initial labs revealed mild leukocytosis with eosinophilia. Liver function tests and lipase were within normal limits. A contrast-enhanced abdominal-pelvic CT revealed a large, complex cystic structure centered in the right hepatic lobe, containing a peripheral membrane-like structure with evidence of internal hemorrhagic components extending into the peritoneum. Further interrogation with ultrasound confirmed the free-floating internal membrane, known as the “water lily” sign, which is highly specific for hydatid cysts. Using the World Health Organization classification, this was categorized as a CE 3A cyst. A follow-up MRI for drainage localization confirmed hemoperitoneum arising from the ruptured hydatid cyst, as well as peritoneal inflammation. We observed the expected MR features of a hydatid cyst with high T2 signal and low T2 internal debris, as well as overall low T1 mixed signal intensity. Ultrasound-guided percutaneous aspiration and alcohol ablation of the hepatic hydatid cyst was performed using catheter drainage. Fluid analysis demonstrated hooklets and protoscolices confirming the presence of Echinococcus spp. Morbidity and mortality related to echinococcosis is usually due to mass effect from enlarging cysts, which may result in organ disruption, or cyst rupture, potentially leading to anaphylaxis. This case highlights the incidental nature of hydatid cysts, which, although relatively easy to treat, often go undiagnosed until discovered by chance. Read More

Meeting name: SPR 2025 Annual Meeting , 2025

Authors: Martinez-sicari Jorge, Eller Madeline, Mahdi Eman, Elbich Jeff, Jones Kathryn, Mishra Chakradhar, Vorona Gregory

Keywords: Hydatid, Abdominal Trauma

Fanconi anemia (FA) is a rare genetic disorder characterized by impaired DNA repair, leading to bone marrow failure, physical abnormalities, and a heightened cancer risk. A severe neurological complication, Fanconi anemia neuroinflammatory syndrome (FANS), involves progressive neuroinflammation and brain lesions, resulting in cognitive and motor impairments. We present the case of a 12-year-old male with FANS and its neuroimaging findings over an 8-year period. The patient, with a history of stem cell transplant and graft-versus-host disease, initially presented with developmental delays at age 10, progressing to slurred speech and diplopia by age 12. Serial brain MRIs from 2016 to 2024 revealed the evolving features of FANS, but initially posed significant diagnostic challenges due to the rarity of this entity. Key imaging findings included multiple scattered foci of abnormal T2/FLAIR hyperintensity and enhancement throughout the brain, progressing to numerous ring-enhancing lesions with associated calcifications. Late-stage imaging showed large destructive lesions with significant mass effect, including a 3.6 cm rim-enhancing lesion causing 1.2 cm midline shift and ventricular entrapment. Early radiological differentials included infection, neurological manifestations of chronic graft-versus-host disease, cerebrovascular disease, and even aggressive brain tumors. Biopsy revealed necro-inflammation, with tumor analysis identifying a significant ESR1/CCDC170 gene variant. The clinical course was marked by relentless progression including cognitive decline, weakness, imbalance, and seizures. Multiple immunosuppressive therapies were attempted with limited success. This case emphasizes the importance of recognizing FANS imaging patterns, which progress from small enhancing lesions to large, destructive ones. The distinctive imaging features, combined with a history of Fanconi anemia, should prompt consideration of FANS in the differential diagnosis, even when other causes may seem more likely. Awareness of FANS as a complication in Fanconi anemia patients is crucial for timely diagnosis and management. Emphasis needs to be placed on researching effective treatments, as current options have limited success in halting progression. Recognizing FANS is essential to prevent unnecessary and harmful treatments for misdiagnosed conditions. Read More

Meeting name: SPR 2025 Annual Meeting , 2025

Authors: Martinez-sicari Jorge, Shahid Mehreen, Mahdi Eman, Canissario Ryan, Richard Hope, Sisler India, Jones Kathryn, Mishra Chakradhar, Vorona Gregory

Keywords: Genetics, Brain, Inflammation