Central nervous system Aspergillus fumigatus infection with subarachnoid haemorrhage secondary to hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis: a rare case report.

BACKGROUND

Secondary central nervous system (CNS) Aspergillus fumigatus infection leading to subarachnoid hemorrhage following the onset of hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) represents an extremely rare case. We provide a detailed account of the disease course, including laboratory results and brain imaging.

CASE PRESENTATION

A 23-year-old male patient presented with fever and was subsequently diagnosed with HLH after comprehensive examinations. His symptoms were significantly alleviated following treatment with liposomal doxorubicin, etoposide, and methylprednisolone. Three months later, the patient returned with headaches. After completing brain MRI and cerebrospinal fluid next generation sequencing (NGS), he was diagnosed with CNS Aspergillus fumigatus infection. Antifungal treatments including caspofungin, voriconazole, and amphotericin B were administered sequentially. Various indicators were dynamically monitored throughout the course, including cerebrospinal fluid NGS. Four months after the diagnosis of CNS Aspergillus fumigatus infection, the patient suddenly developed subarachnoid hemorrhage, and deceased one month later.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with HLH on immunosuppressive therapy may be at increased risk of invasive fungal infections, including CNS Aspergillus fumigatus, and close follow-up is necessary. Early completion of cerebrospinal fluid NGS in patients suspected of having concurrent CNS Aspergillus fumigatus infection has positive significance for diagnosis and treatment. Aggressive treatment also plays a significant role in prolonging life expectancy.