Aspergillus and lung transplantation.

BACKGROUND

Aspergillus infection is a known complication of transplantation.

METHODS

We describe our experience with 37 patients who received lung transplants over 2 years at Loyola University Medical Center. All patients who had evidence of aspergillus on culture of clinical specimens or had biopsies with hyphal forms consistent with aspergillus were categorized according to the clinical manifestations. Important risk factors were analyzed in comparison with other lung transplant recipients during the same period.

RESULTS

The incidence of invasive aspergillosis was high (16%). No patient with disseminated disease survived. Locally invasive disease responded well to treatment with amphotericin B and itraconazole.

CONCLUSIONS

Lung transplantation patients may have a higher incidence of aspergillosis as compared with other transplantation groups. Prophylactic measures need to be explored.