Allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis mimicking miliary tuberculosis

Abstract

Tuberculosis (TB) continues to be a major global health problem, especially in developing countries such as Indonesia. TB makes the individual more susceptible to other diseases caused by other microorganisms. Allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA) is usually a progressive disease, occurs in patients with hypersensitivity toward Aspergillus fumigatus, and is found almost exclusively in asthma and cystic fibrosis patients. The clinical manifestations and radiologic findings of ABPA often mimic other pulmonary diseases. This case report illustrates a 35-year-old women who was initially diagnosed with miliary TB, but was later diagnosed with ABPA after further examinations (immunoglobulin E and thoracic computed tomography scan). After treatment with anti-TB drugs, itraconazole, and methylprednisolone for 2 weeks, the patient felt resolution of symptoms. Significant changes were in the chest radiography and the immunoglobulin E level reduced considerably.

Keywords

• allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis
• antifungal
• tuberculosis