Elaine Dumoulin, MD, FRCPC
University of Calgary, Calgary, AB
Intracavitary pulmonary aspergilloma is a devastating chronic fungal infection with a high mortality rate if left untreated. It is widely believed that aspergillomas do not respond to antifungal agents as the drugs do not achieve the minimal inhibitory concentrations within the lung cavities. Surgical therapy is the treatment of choice but is often not possible due to poor lung function and comorbidities. Over the years, we have developed a protocol to manage the non-surgical patients with a combination of antifungal medication and an endoscopic approach to the fungus ball removal. We have an expertise of more than fifteen patients with very successful outcomes. This is an innovative technique to improve patient care for candidates who have a poor prognosis on conventional approach. We also have a better understanding of the relationship between the fungus and the host.
Learning Objectives:
At the end of this presentation, attendees will be able to:
- Review the gold standard treatment of intracavitary aspergillomas
- Discuss the endoscopic approach of aspergilloma removal in non-surgical candidates; and
- Review the outcomes of patients after endoscopic removal of aspergilloma.
CanMEDS Roles Addressed: Collaborator, Communicator, Health Advocate, Leader, Medical Expert, Professional, Scholar
