Influenza A pneumonia presenting as progressive focal infiltrates in a stem cell transplant recipient.

BACKGROUND

Stem cell transplant recipients are susceptible to pulmonary infections, including influenza A. Typically, isolated influenza pneumonia has a diffuse, interstitial infiltrate pattern.

OBJECTIVES

To describe the unusual clinical and radiographic course of influenza A pneumonia in a stem cell transplant recipient.

STUDY DESIGN

Case report in which microbiologic assays, bronchoscopic and pathologic specimens are obtained.

RESULTS

We describe a patient with influenza A pneumonia 8 months following a peripheral blood stem cell transplant who presented with minimal respiratory symptoms and rapidly progressing, focal pulmonary infiltrates. The large size and appearance of the masses have not been reported before in a patient with isolated influenza.

CONCLUSION

This case highlights the differences of presentation and importance of early diagnosis and treatment of immunocompromised patients infected with influenza.