Uncommon presentation of allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis during the COVID-19 lockdown: a case report

Abstract

Abstract Background During the ongoing pandemic of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), lockdown periods have changed the way that people and communities live, work and interact. Case presentation This case report describes an uncommon but important presentation of allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA) in a previously healthy male, who decided to live in the basement of his house when Italy entered a nationwide lockdown during the COVID-19 pandemic. As high resolution computed tomography (HRCT) of the chest on admission showed diffuse miliary nodules, a miliary tuberculosis was initially suspected. However, further investigations provided a diagnosis of unusual presentation of ABPA. Conclusions This case highlights the importance of maintaining awareness of Aspergillus-associated respiratory disorders during the COVID-19 pandemic, especially because lifestyle changes associated with home isolation carry an increased risk of exposure to mold spores present in some indoor environments.

Keywords

• Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)
• Allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA)
• Aspergillus-associated respiratory disorders