Bilateral adrenal histoplasmosis presenting as adrenal mass mimicking malignancy in an immunocompetent patient

Abstract

We report a case of a 78-year-old immunocompetent man who presented with worsening fatigue and lethargy for one month. He had also been complaining of cough and SOB for two months which had been attributed to his underlying COPD and possible pneumonia. CT showed bilateral pleural effusions, ground-glass opacities, cirrhosis, splenomegaly and bilateral adrenal masses which was highly suspicious for malignancy. After pheochromocytoma was ruled out, EUS-FNA guided biopsy was performed on the left adrenal gland. Histology was positive for yeast cells, with fungal staining (PAS) revealing narrow-based budding compatible with Histoplasma. The patient was treated with amphotericin and itraconazole. Our case is unique as he presented with hepatosplenomegaly, which is reported in less than a quarter of cases. Although typically a diagnosis in immunocompromised patients, a high index of clinical suspicion is required to diagnose disseminated histoplasmosis in an immunocompetent patient. The gold standard for diagnosis is fungal tissue culture. However results may take up to weeks. EUS-FNA guided biopsy of adrenal glands can aid in early definitive diagnosis and management.

Keywords

• Histoplasmosis
• EUS-FNA
• Bilateral adrenal masses