Invasive aspergillosis related to ibrutinib therapy for chronic lymphocytic leukemia

Abstract

We report a case of invasive pulmonary aspergillosis in a patient taking ibrutinib, a Bruton's tyrosine kinase inhibitor used to treat refractory chronic lymphocytic leukemia. We hypothesize that ibrutinib promoted this infection by suppressing innate immune responses against Aspergillus. Clinicians should be aware of potential Aspergillus infections in patients treated with this drug.

Keywords

• Aspergillus
• Invasive aspergillosis
• Ibrutinib
• Bruton's tyrosine kinase
• Chronic lymphocytic leukemia