Laryngeal aspergillosis following high dose inhaled fluticasone therapy for asthma. Issue 9 (1st September 1999)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Fairfax, A J; David, V; Douce, G
• Is Part Of: Thorax. Volume 54:Issue 9(1999)
• Page Start: 860
• Page End: 861
• Publication Date: 1999-09-01
• Subjects: laryngeal aspergillosis -- Aspergillus fumigatus -- asthma -- fluticasone propionate; Chest -- Diseases -- Periodicals; Thorax; Chest -- Diseases; Periodicals; Periodicals; 617.54
• DOI: 10.1136/thx.54.9.860
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0040-6376

Abstract

Abstract : The case history is presented of a 75 year old man with chronic asthma who was treated with inhaled fluticasone propionate in a daily dose of 2 mg using a Diskhaler. After three years of treatment he developed progressive hoarseness. Both vocal cords were colonised by Aspergillus fumigatus which formed a white slough on the surface. Biopsy specimens showed changes suggestive of laryngeal aspergillosis with an ulcerated epithelium, fibrinopurulent debris, and colonies of fungal hyphae. A slow recovery occurred after three months of treatment with topical amphotericin and with cessation of inhaled corticosteroids. Laryngoscopy is recommended if hoarseness occurs during treatment with fluticasone.