IBCC Episode 84 - Invasive pulmonary aspergillosis

In this episode of The Internet Book of Critical Care, Josh and Adam discuss invasive pulmonary aspergillosis, a fungal infection. They cover the basics of the fungus, its prevalence, and why it poses a significant threat, especially as a secondary infection. They outline risk factors (high, intermediate, and low), typical and less common presentations, and diagnostic methods, including galactomannan and beta-D-glucan assays, sputum cultures, PCR assays, and radiology (CT scans). They emphasize the importance of considering aspergillosis in ventilator-associated pneumonia cases, even without classic immunosuppression, and discuss treatment options like Voriconazole and Isovuconazole, highlighting potential pitfalls in diagnosis and the need for a comprehensive approach.