ABSTRACT
Introduction This study aimed to determine the prevalence of multidrug-resistant Gram-negative bacteria (GNB) from blood cultures in a tertiary-care hospital and the multiplex PCR assay's ability to detect resistance genes. Methods A total of 388 GNB isolates obtained from hospitalized patients between November 2019 and November 2021 were included in the study. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was done by VITEK 2 system and broth microdilution method. Beta-lactamase-encoding genes were detected by multiplex PCR assays, BioFire-Blood Culture Identification 2 (BCID2) panel (bioMerieux, France). Extended-spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBLs) were detected phenotypically with VITEK AST-GN71 card (bioMerieux, France). The isolates of GNB were classified into multidrug-resistant, extensively-drug-resistant, and pandrug-resistant categories, and their prevalence and distribution in different wards, including coronavirus diseases 2019 (COVID-19) intensive care units (ICU), were calculated. Results Results revealed that all isolates of Acinetobacter baumannii and Pseudomonas aeruginosa were multidrug-resistant as well as 91.6% of Enterobacter cloacae, 80.6% of Proteus mirabilis, and 76.1% of Klebsiella pneumoniae, respectively. In fermentative bacteria, blaOXA-48-like (58.1%), blaNDM (16.1%), blaKPC (9.7%) and blaVIM (6.5%) genes were detected. More than half of Enterobacter cloacae (58.3%) and Klebsiella pneumoniae (53.7%) produced ESBLs. Among non-fermenters, the blaNDM gene was carried by 55% of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and 19.5% of Acinetobacter baumannii. In the COVID-19 ICU, Acinetobacter baumannii was the most common isolate (86.1%). Conclusions This study revealed high proportions of multidrug-resistant blood isolates and various underlying resistance genes in Gram-negative strains. The BCID2 panel seems to be helpful for the detection of the most prevalent resistance genes of fermentative bacteria.Copyright © GERMS 2022.
ABSTRACT
Background: Since patients admitted to the intensive care unit have a compromised im-mune system and are more prone to infection than other patients, timely diagnosis and treatment of corneal ulcers among this group of patients can prevent vision loss. Therefore, it is necessary to treat eye infections and corneal ulcers promptly and economize prohibitive costs. Objective(s): Appropriate treatment with the most effective antibiotic before the answer is available to prevent corneal ulcer complications and blindness. Method(s): This study was conducted from November 2019 to November 2020 and after approval by the ethics committee of Hamedan University of Medical Sciences with the code of ethics: IR.UMSHA.REC.1398.716. First, the corneal secretions of 121 patients admitted to the intensive care unit of Sina Hospital are prepared by an ophthalmologist (after anesthetizing the cornea with tetra-caine drops and sterile swabs) and culture in four growth mediums (blood agar, chocolate agar, thio-glycolate, and EMB). Microbial cultures are examined after 48 hours and a fungal culture is examined one week later. Disc diffusions are placed in positive microbial cultures. Antibiotic susceptibility or resistance of the antibiogram was recorded. Other demographic data, including patients' age and sex, are extracted from ICU files. Also, test results and patient identifications are recorded in a checklist designed for this purpose. Result(s): Of all the antibiotics used against common bacteria, vancomycin (84%), colistin (80.43%), cefazolin (80%), and levofloxacin (60%) had the highest sensitivity and gentamicin (93.75%), ceftazidime (86.42%) Erythromycin (85%) had the highest resistance against isolated bacteria. Conclusion(s): The data obtained from this study showed that the most common microorganisms in the age group under the age of 30 years were Acinetobacter Baumannii, in the group of 30-60 years old was Klebsiella pneumonia, and age group over 61 years old was Staphylococcus aureus, and the most sensitive antibiotics in the age group under 30 years were vancomycin and levofloxacin and the age group30-60 were colistin and vancomycin and in the age group over 61 years were vancomycin and cefazolin.Copyright © 2023 Bentham Science Publishers.
ABSTRACT
Carbapenem administration is an important therapy for nosocomial infections due to MDRO, especially Acinetobacter baumannii. The global increase in carbapenem-resistant A. baumannii (CRAB) that causes this pathogen has significantly threatened public health due to the lack of adequate treatment options due to the very few currently available antimicrobial agents that actively fight CRAB. Antimicrobial resistance is a major negative impact of inappropriate antimicrobial prescribing. Ineffective empiric treatment (initial antibiotic regimen not sensitive to identified pathogens based on in vitro sensitivity test results) is associated with a higher rate of deaths compared to effective empiric treatment. In this study, we analyzed the correlation between the suitability of empiric and definitive antibiotics and the clinical outcomes of patients with bacteremia due to CRAB treated in the inpatient ward of Dr. Soetomo Tertiary Referral Hospital, Surabaya. There were 227 isolates of bacteremia due to CRAB, consisting of 156 carbapenem-resistant A. baumanni and 71 carbapenem-sensitive A. baumannii. There were 88 isolates that met the inclusion and exclusion criteria, and all of them were resistant to ceftriaxone, cefepime, and ciprofloxacin. A total of 29.5% of the isolates were sensitive to cotrimoxazole, 3.4% of the isolates were sensitive to tigecycline, and 2.3% of the isolates were sensitive to amikacin, levofloxacin, and cefoperazone sulbactam. Adequate empirical antibiotics and definitive antibiotics (sensitive based on culture sensitivity test) amounted to 12.5% and 27.3%, respectively. There is no significant correlation between the suitability of empiric and definitive therapies with the patients' clinical outcomes (death and length of stay).Copyright © 2022 Phcogj.Com.
ABSTRACT
Lymphangitis carcinomatosa refers to pulmonary interstitial involvement by cancer and is a dreaded clinical finding in oncology because it is a late manifestation indicative of metastatic malignancy, from either a lung or a nonlung primary cancer, and is associated with poor prognosis. Its presentation is nonspecific, often with subacute dyspnoea and a nonproductive cough in a person with a known history of malignancy, but in some cases is the first manifestation of cancer. CT imaging can be suggestive, typically demonstrating thickening of the peribronchovascular interstitium, interlobular septa and fissures. However, a biopsy may be required to confirm the pathological diagnosis as these changes can also be due to concurrent disease such as heart failure, ILD, infection, radiation pneumonitis and drug reactions. Diagnosis allows symptomatic treatment, with personalised treatment directed towards the primary cancer most likely to provide a meaningful benefit. Future research should focus on prospective clinical trials to identify new interventions to improve both diagnosis and treatment of lymphangitis carcinomatosa.Copyright © ERS 2021.
ABSTRACT
History: A 20 year old D1 men's basketball player with a history of COVID the month prior presented with worsening low back pain. He denied any injury, but reported the pain started as low back discomfort after a basketball game the week prior. He noted a progression and radiation of pain down his right lower extremity to his toes. He had tried physical therapy and dry needling, as well as cyclobenzaprine and naproxen from team physicians with mild improvement. The pain worsened and he went to the ED for evaluation. He was afebrile and had a lumbar radiograph with no acute fracture, grade 1 anterolisthesis of L5 on S1. He was discharged home with norco. Over the next 2 days, he developed chills and in the context of his worsening back pain, his team physicians ordered an MRI. Physical Exam: BMI 26.9 Temp 97.9degree Heart rate: 73 Respiratory rate 14 BP: 124/64 MSK: Spine- Intact skin with generalized pain over lumbar area, worse over the right paraspinal musculature. 5/5 strength of bilateral lower extremity flexion and extension of his hips, knees, and plantar and dorsiflexion of ankles and toes. Bilateral intact sensibility in the sciatic, femoral, superficial, and deep peroneal, sural, and saphenous nerve distributions. Slightly diminished sensibility over the right deep peroneal nerve distribution compared to left. 2/4 patellar and achilles DTRs. No clonus, downgoing Babinski sign. Positive straight leg raise at 45 degrees with the right lower extremity. Differential Diagnosis: 141. Sciatica 142. Lumbar Muscle Strain 143. Disk Herniation 144. Spondylolisthesis 145. Vertebral Osteomyelitis Test Results: CBC:WBC10, HGB13.2, neutrophils 75.7% (red 45%-74%). Unremarkable CMP. CRP =7.31, ESR 23 Blood culture negative, throat culture negative. TB test negative. COVID test negative. Flu test negative. Urine culture and UDS negative. HIV test negative. Procalcitonin of 0.07. IR guided aspiration and bacterial Culture yielded MSSA. MRI w/contrast: showing L1-L4 facet edema concerning for infectious spondylitis, intramuscular, and epidural abscess. Final Diagnosis: Acute intramuscular abscess, vertebral osteomyelitis, with epidural abscess. Discussion(s): Vertebral osteomyelitis is a serious but quite rare disease in the immunocompetent, elite athlete population. Staphylococcus Aureus is the culprit a majority of the time, with only 50% of cases showing neurologic symptoms. This case was unique given the proximity to a dry needling treatment which is the only explainable vector of infection, normal blood cultures in this disease which hematogenously spreads, negativeHIV and other infectious disease testing, and otherwise benign history. Early recognition of this disease yields better outcomes and reduces incidence of severe debility. 5% to 10%of patients experience recurrence of back pain or osteomyelitis later on in life. Outcome(s): Patient was hospitalized and started on Cefepime and Vancomycin. Had an echocardiogram revealing changes consistent with athlete's heart without signs of vegetation on his cardiac valves. Neurosurgery declined to treat surgically. He continued to improve until he was ultimately discharged on hospital day 4 with a picc line and Nafcillin and was later changed to oral augmentin per ID. Follow-Up: By his 6 week follow-up visit with infectious disease and the team physicians, his back pain had completely resolved and was cleared to start a return to play protocol. There was no progression of disease since starting antibiotics, and no recurrence of back pain since treatment.
ABSTRACT
Objective: To analyze the distribution and drug resistance of pathogenic bacteria in blood culture specimens of patients with bloodstream infections before and after COVID-19 (2018-2019 and 2020-2021), and to provide scientific basis and reference for rational treatment and effective control of bloodstream infections in the post-epidemic period. Methods: Blood culture specimens were collected from patients in Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University in the two years before and after the COVID-19 outbreak (2018-2021). The Automated Blood Culture Systems were used to perform blood culture on blood specimens sent for clinical inspection, and the Vitek MS automatic bacterial identification mass spectrometer was used for strain identification and the Vitek 2 automatic bacterial drug susceptibility analyzer was used for drug susceptibility testing and drug resistance analysis. Results: Blood culture specimens were performed on 28 736 patients with suspected bloodstream infection submitted for inspection from January 2018 to December 2019, and a total of 2 181 strains of pathogenic bacteria were detected after removing duplicate strains, with a positive rate of 7.69%, including 1 046 strains of Gram-negative bacteria, accounting for 47.96%. From January 2020 to December 2021, blood culture specimens from 26 083 patients with suspected bloodstream infection were submitted for inspection, and a total of 2 111 strains of pathogenic bacteria were detected after excluding duplicate strains, with a positive rate of 8.09%, including 1 000 strains of Gram-negative bacteria accounted for 47.37%. The drug resistance of Klebsiella pneumoniae was relatively serious, and the sensitivity rate to ertapenem, polymyxin B and tigecycline was more than 90%. The main non-fermentative bacteria Acinetobacter baumannii was more than 50% sensitive to piperacillin/tazobactam, amikacin and polymyxin B. The sensitivity rates of Pseudomonas aeruginosa to piperacillin/tazobactam, ceftazidime, cefepime, amikacin, gentamicin, tobramycin, ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin, piperacillin and meropenem were more than 50%. Conclusions: In the two years before and after COVID-19, there are many types of pathogenic bacteria in bloodstream infection, but the distribution do not differ significantly. The pathogens of bloodstream infection are mainly distributed in ICU, hepatobiliary research institute, and nephrology department. Among them, Gram-negative bacteria such as Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Acinetobacter baumannii are the main ones, and different pathogens showed great differences in drug resistance.
ABSTRACT
Background: Drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS) syndrome is a life-threatening drug-induced condition presenting with skin rash, fever, lymphadenopathy, systemic involvement and hematological (eosinophilia, atypical lymphocytes) findings. Although DRESS syndrome is frequently associated with reactivation of herpesviruses, the link between DRESS and COVID-19 has not been systematically analyzed. Method(s): A systematic search using PubMed and Google Scholar was conducted following the PRISMA guidelines to identify all reported DRESS cases associated with COVID-19 published between January 2020 and January 2022 using the keywords "COVID-19" AND "DRESS syndrome" OR "drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms" OR "drug-induced hypersensitivity syndrome" OR "eosinophilia" AND "SARS-CoV- 2" OR "coronavirus". The identified DRESS cases were evaluated using the Registry of Severe Cutaneous Adverse Reactions (RegiSCAR) scoring system [Kardaun et al, 2007]. Result(s): We identified twelve published DRESS cases associated with COVID-19 (Table 1). Eleven patients presented with severe COVID-19 disease complicated by DRESS syndrome that developed several days after initial COVID-19 clinical presentation (ARDS n5;multiorgan failure n1;pneumonia requiring mechanical ventilation, n4), one patient was asymptomatic. The culprit drugs included piperacillin-tazobactam (n4), hydroxychloroquine (n5), vancomycin (n2), ceftriaxone (n1), midazolam (n1), sulphasalazine (n1), azithromycin (n1), esomeprazole (n1), cefepime (n1), levofloxacin (n1), and meropenem (n1). The latency between the onset of treatment with culprit drug(s) and the onset of symptoms ranged from 9 to 42 days. All patients presented with widespread maculopapular rash, affecting > 50% of body surface area;five patients also had facial edema. Systemic involvement included liver (n8), renal abnormalities (n8), and heart involvement (n4). All patients had elevated body temperature (fever > = 38.5degreeC, n6) and blood eosinophilia, five patients had lymphadenopathy. Atypical lymphocytes were a rare laboratory finding (n2). Systemic corticosteroids were used in all patients;three patients received benralizumab for DRESS syndrome. Nine patients recovered, two patients died and the outcome was not reported in one case Conclusion(s): DRESS syndrome in COVID-19 patients is associated with multiple drugs, most notably with hydroxychloroquine and a variety of antibiotics. An early recognition may improve management of DRESS syndrome in COVID-19 patients.
ABSTRACT
Background: Currently, the present world is facing a new deadly challenge from a pandemic disease called COVID-19, which is caused by a coronavirus named SARS-CoV-2. To date, no drug or vaccine can treat COVID-19 completely, but some drugs have been used primarily, and they are in different stages of clinical trials. This review article discussed and compared those drugs which are running ahead in COVID-19 treatments. Method(s): We have explored PUBMED, SCOPUS, WEB OF SCIENCE, as well as press releases of WHO, NIH and FDA for articles related to COVID-19 and reviewed them. Result(s): Drugs like favipiravir, remdesivir, lopinavir/ritonavir, hydroxychloroquine, azithromycin, ivermectin, corticosteroids and interferons have been found effective to some extent, and partially approved by FDA and WHO to treat COVID-19 at different levels. However, some of these drugs have been disapproved later, although clinical trials are going on. In parallel, plasma therapy has been found fruitful to some extent too, and a number of vaccine trials are going on. Conclusion(s): This review article discussed the epidemiologic and mechanistic characteristics of SARS-CoV-2, and how drugs could act on this virus with the comparative discussion on progress and drawbacks of major drugs used till date, which might be beneficial for choosing therapies against COVID-19 in different countries.Copyright © 2022 Bentham Science Publishers.
ABSTRACT
Background Acute bacterial pericarditis is rare and can decompensate quickly to cardiac tamponade and cardiac arrest. Targeted antibiotic therapy, pericardiocentesis, and pericardiotomy are the cornerstones of management. Case 51-year-old male presented with 2-weeks of progressive chest pain, cough, and fatigue. A month prior he tested positive for COVID-19. On exam he was tachycardiac, tachypneic, and normotensive. JVD and peripheral edema were present. Labs revealed elevated WBC, BNP, HS-troponin, and ESR/CRP. Blood cultures were positive for methicillin susceptible Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA). Echo showed a large pericardial effusion with a swinging heart. ECG showed diffuse ST elevations and PR depression. He was not clinically in tamponade but shortly after became bradycardic and had a PEA arrest. Emergent bedside pericardiocentesis was performed, and after 9-minutes of ACLS, ROSC was attained. Pericardial fluid grew MSSA. Decision-making Vancomycin and cefepime were started and tapered to cefazolin to cover MSSA bacteremia and pericarditis. Repeat blood cultures were negative. A month after discharge he had no cardiac symptoms and echo showed minimal pericardial fluid. Conclusion In patients with COVID-19 and pericardial effusion, bacterial pericarditis can be secondary to contiguous spread from lung parenchyma or myopericarditis with superimposed infection, or due to primary pericarditis. This is the second reported case of spontaneous purulent pericarditis with MSSA. [Formula presented]Copyright © 2023 American College of Cardiology Foundation
ABSTRACT
Introduction Lactococcus garvieae, a zoonotic pathogen, may rarely infect humans through the consumption of fish. Documented manifestations of L. garvieae infection in humans include infective endocarditis, prosthetic joint infections, liver abscesses, peritoneal dialysis-associated peritonitis, osteomyelitis, meningitis, infective spondylodiscitis, acalculous cholecystitis, and urinary tract infection. Case report An 87-year-old female was hospitalized for coffee-ground emesis secondary to acute gastritis after eating cooked fish. One week after her discharge, she developed new-onset confusion and was returned to the hospital. Chest computed tomography revealed total consolidation of the left lung and a multiloculated left pleural effusion. The patient required intubation and direct admission to the intensive care unit. Pleural fluid and blood cultures grew L. garvieae, which was susceptible to ceftriaxone, penicillin, and vancomycin. Despite intensive antibiotic therapy and supportive care for thirteen days, the patient remained in irreversibl e shock, and the family opted for comfort care. Conclusions Heretofore unreported, this case demonstrates that L. garvieae can cause bronchopneumonia and empyema. Copyright © GERMS 2022.
ABSTRACT
Case Report: Hafnia alvei, a member of the Enterococcus family, is a gram-negative anaerobe native to the gastrointestinal tract. While very rarely pathogenic, it has historically been associated with gastroenteritis, meningitis, bacteremia, pneumonia, and nosocomial wound infections. Here we report a non-fatal case of Hafnia-septicemia following recent ERCP for Choledocholithiasis. Case Report: 73-year-old Caucasian male with Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, chronic kidney disease Stage 5, diabetes mellitus and hypertension who presented to the Emergency Department (ED) with a chief complaint of chills and fevers as well as worsening dry hacking cough and intermittent shortness of breath. Of note, patient had presented to the ED the previous day with abdominal pain and nausea after undergoing ERCP for Choledocholithiasis from day prior. Computed tomography (CT) imaging from 1st ED visit showed no acute signs of pancreatitis, however patient was noted to have bibasilar opacities. Lipase was normal at 39. Other lab work was significant for leukocytosis to 11 000. Patient's abdominal pain and nausea resolved while in the ED, he also denied shortness of breath and was breathing comfortably on room air. He was discharged from the ED with 7-day course of Azithromycin for community acquired pneumonia. On return visit next day, patient reported new onset shortness of breath and fevers. Physical exam was remarkable for hypoxia requiring 2 liters nasal cannula, and tachycardia to 104. Patient tested negative for Covid -19. Patient admitted for acute hypoxic respiratory failure and sepsis secondary to presumed bacterial pneumonia. Patient was started on IV Vancomycin and Cefepime and required oxygen support for hypoxia. He showed marked improvement by day two of hospitalization and was weaned off oxygen. Admission Blood cultures were positive for gram negative rods after 24 hours and subsequently grew Hafnia that was pan sensitive except to Ampicillin + Sulbactam. Repeat blood cultureswere negative 24 hours later. Patient was deemed medically stable on day 3 of admission and discharged on PO Levofloxacin for 10-day course for Hafnia septicemia and pneumonia. Discussion(s): When considering the etiology of septicemia especially in the context of a recent gastrointestinal procedure, translocation of anaerobic bacteria should be on the differential. Hafnia alvei is a rare pathologic cause of septicemia with only a handful of reported cases upon literature review. Copyright © 2023 Southern Society for Clinical Investigation.
ABSTRACT
This study aimed to assess Cefepime or Ceftazidime efficacy when combined with steroid therapy (dexamethasone) and anticoagulant therapy (LMWH / Rivaroxaban) for COVID-19 patients. RT-PCR confirmed cases of Covid-19 in 367 (159 males) patients were treated with Cefepime or Ceftazidime, with steroids added to the treatment protocol. Patients were classified into two groups: Group 1: mild and moderate cases (286 patients) and Group 2: serious cases (81 patients). Patients in Group 1 were divided into five sub-groups and the sixth is control group. Patients in Group 2 were divided into three subgroups. All patients were monitored daily, and we were able to determine how long they had to use the steroid, how long they had to be treated, and if oxygen treatment was required. The average of steroid period required for first 5 subgroups of Group 1 treatment was 4.01 days, while Group 2 required 9.17 days. The first 5 subgroups of Group 1 had a mean treatment period of 10 days, while Group 2 had 20.4 days. The patients in Group 2 required oxygen therapy for an average of 11.03 days, while the patients in Group 1 did not need oxygen therapy. The study's patients were all released alive. The steroidal duration needed and total treatment duration did not vary significantly between Group 1 subgroups. Ceftazidime or Cefepime is extremely successful in shortening the time of illness in Covid-19 patients. Their early use decreases the need for steroid therapy as well as oxygen therapy. In severe cases, combining Ivermectin, LMWH, and Rivaroxaban with Ceftazidime or Cefepime is advisable to shorten disease time, reduce thrombosis risk, and lower mortality risk. Cefepime showed better results in severe cases treatment than ceftazidime. Adding ivermectin showed a noticeable improvement. Copyright © 2022, Anka Publishers. All rights reserved.
ABSTRACT
SESSION TITLE: Critical Renal and Endocrine Disorders Case Report Posters SESSION TYPE: Case Report Posters PRESENTED ON: 10/17/2022 12:15 pm - 01:15 pm INTRODUCTION: Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) is an autosomal recessive disease characterized by an abnormal beta-globin chain of hemoglobin (Hb) that leads to malformed sickled cells with a multitude of downstream microvascular occlusions and anemia. While splenic infarction is by far the most common gastrointestinal (GI) manifestation, vaso-occlusion may occur in the liver, leading to an acute hepatic crisis. Acute hepatic sequestration of sickled erythrocytes is an exceedingly rare manifestation. CASE PRESENTATION: A 43-year-old man with homozygous sickle cell disease complicated by End-Stage renal disease was admitted with generalized malaise, right upper quadrant (RUQ) abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting. He was febrile with a temperature of 38.1°C, hypotensive with a blood pressure of 93/61 mmHg and tachycardic with a heart rate of 120 bpm. He was lethargic and uncomfortable with diffuse abdominal tenderness without guarding. Due to concern for septic shock, blood cultures, COVID PCR and influenza were obtained, and the patient was rapidly transferred to the intensive care unit for closer monitoring. Empiric vancomycin and cefepime were started promptly. The initial hemoglobin level was 6.1mg/dL with a leukocytosis of 31.2 K/CUMM and absolute neutrophil count of 21.8 K/CUMM;total hyperbilirubinemia of 17.45 mg/dL, direct hyperbilirubinemia of 11.46mg/dL and elevated INR at 1.66. Computed tomography of the abdomen and pelvis without contrast showed a known 4 cm cystic lesion of the right hepatic lobe and atrophic kidneys. Duplex flow of the abdomen and pelvis showed no portal vein thrombosis and patent flow in the portal vein and artery. Over the course of several hours, the patient's hemoglobin dropped to 3.8mg/dL with a steep rise in LDH and total bilirubin to 632 U/L and 27.04 mg/dL, respectively consistent with hepatic sequestration crisis. Patient was transfused with two units of packed red blood cells, fluid hydration and initiation of erythrocyte exchange transfusion. Prior to receiving exchange transfusion, the patient experienced rapid clinical deterioration with subsequent pulseless electrical activity. Return of spontaneous circulation was achieved transiently however patient's family at this point opted for palliative measures and the patient passed away shortly thereafter. DISCUSSION: Complications of SCD manifest in multiple organ systems. One of the few acute manifestations, hepatic sequestration crisis, is often unfamiliar to many clinicians and left unrecognized, results in poor clinical outcomes. It is rarely encountered and treatment options with blood and, more importantly, exchange transfusion remains often underutilized. CONCLUSIONS: Acute hepatic sequestration crisis is an often-unrecognized manifestation of SCD in which delay in diagnosis and prompt treatment with exchange and blood transfusions may impart a significant risk of mortality in an already prone patient population. Reference #1: Shah R, Taborda C, Chawla S. Acute and chronic hepatobiliary manifestations of sickle cell disease: a review World J Gastrointestinal Pathophysiology 2017;8(3): 108-116 Reference #2: Norris W. Acute hepatic sequestration in sickle cell disease. J of the National Medical Association 2004;96: 1235-1239 Reference #3: Praharaj D, Anand A. Sickle Hepatopathy J of Clinical and Experimental Hepatology 2021;11: 82-96 DISCLOSURES: No relevant relationships by Karim Dirani No relevant relationships by Georgiana Marusca No relevant relationships by Aryan Shiari
ABSTRACT
SESSION TITLE: COVID-19 Co-Infections SESSION TYPE: Rapid Fire Case Reports PRESENTED ON: 10/19/2022 12:45 pm - 1:45 pm INTRODUCTION: SARS-CoV-2 has been associated with co-infecting pathogens, such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Little has been reported about community acquired atypical bacterial co-infections with SARS-CoV-2. We present a case of a patient with recent COVID-19 pneumonia and diagnosis of Legionella and Mycoplasma pneumonia, in addition of E. coli and C. perfringens bacteremia, that emphasizes SARS-CoV-2 impact in human immunity and the need to consider community acquired infections. CASE PRESENTATION: A 64-year-old male with history of hypertension, alcohol use disorder, iron deficiency anemia, and recent COVID-19 pneumonia presented to the ED with shortness of breath, dark urine, and increased confusion. The patient was admitted to the hospital a week prior with COVID-19 pneumonia and acute kidney injury. He received dexamethasone, remdesivir, and IV fluids. After 8 days, he was discharged home. Upon evaluation, he was afebrile and normotensive, but tachycardic, 129/min, on 4 L of nasal cannula sating 100%. On exam, the patient was oriented only to person and had decreased breath sounds bilaterally. Labs revealed an elevated WBC, 15.3 K/mcL, with left shift, low Hgb, 7.8 g/dL, with low MCV, 61 fL, increased BUN/Cr, 56 mg/dL and 2.8 mg/dL, and an abnormal hepatic panel, AST 121 U/L, ALT 45 U/L, alkaline phosphatase 153 U/L. Ammonia, GGT, CPK and lactic acid were within normal range;but the D-dimer and procalcitonin were elevated, 4618 ng/mL and 25.12 ng/mL, respectively. A urinalysis showed gross pyuria, positive leukocyte esterase and mild proteinuria. CT head showed no acute abnormalities, but the chest X-Ray revealed a hazy opacity in the left mid and lower lung, followed by a CT chest that demonstrated peripheral and lower lobe ground glass opacities and a CT abdomen that showed right sided perinephric and periureteral stranding. Given increased risk for thromboembolism, a VQ scan was done being negative for pulmonary embolism. The patient was admitted with acute metabolic encephalopathy, acute kidney injury, transaminitis, pyelonephritis and concern for hospital acquired pneumonia. Vancomycin, cefepime and metronidazole were ordered. HIV screen was negative. COVID-19 PCR, Legionella urine antigen and Mycoplasma IgG and IgM serologies were positive. Blood cultures grew E. coli and C. perfringens. Infectious Disease and Gastroenterology were consulted. The patient was started on azithromycin and a colonoscopy was done showing only diverticulosis. After an extended hospital course, the patient was cleared for discharge, without oxygen needs, to a nursing home with appropriate follow up. DISCUSSION: Co-infection with bacteria causing atypical pneumonia and bacteremia should be considered in patients with recent or current SARS-CoV-2. CONCLUSIONS: Prompt identification of co-existing pathogens can promote a safe and evidence-based approach to the treatment of patients with SARS-CoV-2. Reference #1: Alhuofie S. (2021). An Elderly COVID-19 Patient with Community-Acquired Legionella and Mycoplasma Coinfections: A Rare Case Report. Healthcare (Basel, Switzerland), 9(11), 1598. https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare9111598 Reference #2: Hoque, M. N., Akter, S., Mishu, I. D., Islam, M. R., Rahman, M. S., Akhter, M., Islam, I., Hasan, M. M., Rahaman, M. M., Sultana, M., Islam, T., & Hossain, M. A. (2021). Microbial co-infections in COVID-19: Associated microbiota and underlying mechanisms of pathogenesis. Microbial pathogenesis, 156, 104941. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.micpath.2021.104941 Reference #3: Zhu, X., Ge, Y., Wu, T., Zhao, K., Chen, Y., Wu, B., Zhu, F., Zhu, B., & Cui, L. (2020). Co-infection with respiratory pathogens among COVID-2019 cases. Virus research, 285, 198005. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.virusres.2020.198005 DISCLOSURES: No relevant relationships by Albert Chang No relevant relationships by Eric Chang No relevant relationships by KOMAL KAUR No relevant relationships by Katiria Pintor Jime ez
ABSTRACT
SESSION TITLE: COVID-19 Case Report Posters 1 SESSION TYPE: Case Report Posters PRESENTED ON: 10/17/2022 12:15 pm - 01:15 pm INTRODUCTION: COVID-19 patients requiring admission to an ICU have a higher risk of invasive pulmonary aspergillosis (IPA) with a reported incidence of 19.6%-33.3%. CASE PRESENTATION: A 63-year-old male presented with progressively worsening dyspnea for one week. He has a past medical history of atrial fibrillation, hypertension, and obesity. He was tested positive for COVID about two weeks prior. He did receive a single dose of Moderna vaccine. Initial chest x-ray(CXR) showed diffuse ground-glass opacities. He was initiated on Remdesivir and decadron, and later received a dose of tocilizumab. He was intubated on hospital day 3 for worsened hypoxemia. Repeat CXR suggested some improvement but a new left lower lobe airspace haziness. He also had new-onset leukocytosis with elevated procalcitonin level. He was started on cefepime for concern of superimposed hospital-acquired pneumonia. A second dose of tocilizumab was administered. No clinical improvement was seen, and additional workups were obtained. Serial CXRs revealed increasing diffuse airspace opacities concerning for ARDS. Tracheal aspirate culture grew coagulase-negative staphylococcus and Aspergillosis Fumigatus. Cefepime was changed to vancomycin, and voriconazole and caspofungin were added. Unfortunately, the patient's respiratory status worsened with increasing ventilation requirement. He also developed septic shock and acute renal failure requiring CVVH. He became even more hypotensive after CVVH initiation, and multiple vasopressors were required to maintain his hemodynamics. Unfortunately, he continued to deteriorate and he also developed profound respiratory acidosis. He died shortly afterwards after family decided to withdraw care. DISCUSSION: In this case, in addition to superimposed bacterial pneumonia, pulmonary aspergillosis likely also contributed to his clinical deterioration. The mechanism by which fungal infections develop in COVID-19 infection is not well-understood. Severe COVID-related immune dysregulation, ARDS, and high-dose steroids use are potential culprits for the increased risk of IPA. Tocilizumab, an IL-6 receptor monoclonal antibody used in patients with severe COVID-19 infection, may also predispose the patient to IPA according to post-marketing data. The mortality rate from current case reports is as high as 64.7%. Diagnosis and treatment in such a scenario remain a challenge. Sputum culture, serum Beta-galactomannan, Beta-D glucan, and aspergillosis PCR have low sensitivity. Tissue biopsy and CT scan in critically ill patients are often not feasible. Voriconazole is usually considered the first-line treatment in IPA. CYP3A4-mediated drug interactions between azoles and antiviral agents require further investigation. CONCLUSIONS: Clinicians should be aware that severe COVID-19 patients are at higher risk of IPA. The prognosis is poor. Early detection and treatment in clinically deteriorated patients are warranted. Reference #1: Borman, A.M., Palmer, M.D., Fraser, M., Patterson, Z., Mann, C., Oliver, D., Linton, C.J., Gough, M., Brown, P., Dzietczyk, A. and Hedley, M., 2020. COVID-19-associated invasive aspergillosis: data from the UK National Mycology Reference Laboratory. Journal of clinical microbiology, 59(1), pp.e02136-20. Reference #2: Lai CC, Yu WL. COVID-19 associated with pulmonary aspergillosis: A literature review. J Microbiol Immunol Infect. 2021;54(1):46-53. doi:10.1016/j.jmii.2020.09.004 Reference #3: Thompson Iii GR, Cornely OA, Pappas PG, et al. Invasive Aspergillosis as an Under-recognized Superinfection in COVID-19. Open Forum Infect Dis. 2020;7(7):ofaa242. Published 2020 Jun 19. doi:10.1093/ofid/ofaa242 DISCLOSURES: No relevant relationships by Jason Chang No relevant relationships by Jason Chang No relevant relationships by kaiqing Lin No relevant relationships by Guangchen Zou
ABSTRACT
SESSION TITLE: COVID-19 Co-Infections SESSION TYPE: Rapid Fire Case Reports PRESENTED ON: 10/19/2022 12:45 pm - 1:45 pm INTRODUCTION: The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the emergence of multidrug-resistant bacterial pathogens. Here we present a case of the successful treatment of a COVID-19 superinfection with Citrobacter freundii, which produced both a Klebsiella pneumoniae carbapenemase (KPC) as well as a New Delhi Metallo-Beta-Lactamase (NDM-1). CASE PRESENTATION: A 53-year-old male without significant past medical history was admitted to the intensive care unit for acute hypoxemic respiratory failure due to COVID-19 pneumonia. His hospital course was complicated by progressive hypoxia requiring intubation and mechanical ventilation. Due to persistent fevers and increased respiratory secretions, he was placed on empiric antibiotic therapy including vancomycin, cefepime, and briefly meropenem. Blood cultures were periodically drawn and ultimately demonstrated no growth. However, a respiratory culture via bronchoalveolar lavage was positive for multidrug-resistant Citrobacter freundii. Susceptibilities showed high level of resistance to meropenem, Imipenem, Ceftazidime-Avibactam as well as Aztreonam. Molecular testing confirmed the presence of both KPC and NDM-1 β-lactamases. The patient was treated with a combination of Aztreonam 2g plus Ceftazidime-Avibactam 2.5g IV every eight hours via simultaneous infusion for fourteen days, resulting in clinical improvement and discharge to a rehabilitation facility. DISCUSSION: The emergence of carbapenem-resistant enterobacteria has been identified as a major clinical problem. The high rates and high mortality of carbapenem-resistant enterobacteria complicating the course of COVID patients during the pandemic highlighted the importance of this issue. Among the Enterobacteriaceae, β-lactam resistance is primarily caused by enzymatic degradation by β-lactamases. Two carbapenemase subclasses are especially problematic: KPC and NDM-1. Horizontal gene transfer and clonal expansion have enabled KPC and NDM-1 to spread worldwide. However, coexistence of these two resistant mechanisms within the same pathogen has rarely been reported. Recently, high stability, non-inferior fitness, and transferability among patients of KPC-2-NDM-1-CRKPs have been documented, raising further concerns about the risk for further spread and increasing rates [1]. Therapeutic options are limited. We used a combination of Ceftazidime/Avibactam plus Aztreonam for treatment, based on limited in vitro studies demonstrating a synergistic effect and superior clearance rather than either antibiotic alone or administered in sequence [2,3]. CONCLUSIONS: Superinfections with carbapenem-resistant enterobacteria have increased in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic and are likely to become more prevalent in our hospitals. Prompt recognition and appropriate therapeutic selection are paramount for treating these highly resistant organisms. Reference #1: Gao H, Liu Y, Wang R, Wang Q, Jin L, Wang H. The transferability and evolution of NDM-1 and KPC-2 co-producing Klebsiella pneumoniae from clinical settings. EBioMedicine. 2020 Jan;51:102599. doi: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2019.102599. Epub 2020 Jan 3. PMID: 31911273;PMCID: PMC6948161. Reference #2: Marshall S, Hujer AM, Rojas LJ, Papp-Wallace KM, Humphries RM, Spellberg B, Hujer KM, Marshall EK, Rudin SD, Perez F, Wilson BM, Wasserman RB, Chikowski L, Paterson DL, Vila AJ, van Duin D, Kreiswirth BN, Chambers HF, Fowler VG Jr, Jacobs MR, Pulse ME, Weiss WJ, Bonomo RA. Can Ceftazidime-Avibactam and Aztreonam Overcome β-Lactam Resistance Conferred by Metallo-β-Lactamases in Enterobacteriaceae? Antimicrob Agents Chemother. 2017 Mar 24;61(4):e02243-16. doi: 10.1128/AAC.02243-16. PMID: 28167541;PMCID: PMC5365724. Reference #3: Lodise TP, Smith NM, O'Donnell N, et al. Determining the optimal dosing of a novel combination regimen of ceftazidime/avibactam with aztreonam against NDM-1-producing Enterobacteriaceae using a hollow-fibre infection model. J Antimicrob Chemother 202 ;75(9): 2622-32 DISCLOSURES: No relevant relationships by wisam daoud No relevant relationships by Christopher Walker No relevant relationships by Amanda Westbrook No relevant relationships by Nicola Zetola
ABSTRACT
SESSION TITLE: COVID-19 Case Report Posters 1 SESSION TYPE: Case Report Posters PRESENTED ON: 10/17/2022 12:15 pm - 01:15 pm INTRODUCTION: We describe the clinical course of a COVID-19 patient with Streptococcus Dysgalactiae (SD) infective endocarditis, managed with six weeks of antibiotics and valve replacement surgery. CASE PRESENTATION: A 50-year-old previously healthy man presented with two weeks of fever, congestion, and diarrhea, and one day of acute change in mentation. On arrival, the patient's heart rate was 130/min, respiratory rate 25/min, and temperature 103.5 F. On physical examination, he appeared lethargic. Initial labs showed a white blood count of 16 k/mm with bands and platelets of 64 k/cmm. The patient was treated empirically for severe sepsis with intravenous vancomycin and cefepime. Blood cultures grew SD. Antibiotics were narrowed to intravenous ceftriaxone. A CAT scan of the chest, abdomen, and pelvis identified multiple splenic infarcts. A transesophageal echocardiogram was performed to evaluate the potential source of the splenic emboli, and this showed mild to moderate mitral regurgitation and a large globular mobile vegetation on the anterior mitral valve. Intravenous gentamicin was added to the treatment regimen. Subsequent cultures remained negative, and he underwent bioprosthetic mitral valve replacement on hospital day 11. He received a total of 6 weeks of outpatient intravenous antibiotic therapy. DISCUSSION: SD is a normal commensal of the skin, upper airway, and gastrointestinal tract. It can cause localized and invasive infections. Major risk factors for invasive infections include malignancy, diabetes mellites, and other cardiovascular diseases. Besides a recent COVID-19 infection, our patient was healthy. The COVID-19 infection causes a hypercoagulable state, and when combined with COVID-19 related diarrhea, can lead to the translocation of the gut bacteria, and subsequent infective endocarditis (IE) [1]. SD is a rare cause of IE, but the incidence of IE in bacteremic patients is about 10% [2]. Clinicians should have a low threshold to suspect IE in cases of SD bacteremia. American Heart Association Guidelines on IE [3] state that systemic embolization occurs in 22% to 50% of cases of IE, and the highest incidence of embolism occurs when the vegetation is mobile, on the anterior mitral valve and > 10 mm, like in our case. In such patients, early cardiac surgery should be considered. SD bacteremia recurrence occurs in about 10% of patients within the first year, and patients should be informed about this risk. CONCLUSIONS: Clinicians should suspect IE in the setting of SD bacteremia. COVID-19 infection increases the chances of the development of infective endocarditis. Prolonged intravenous antibiotic therapy and prompt replacement of the involved valve is necessary. SD IE is associated with a high rate of recurrence, and clinicians should be cognizant of this risk. Reference #1: "COVID-19 INFECTION PREDISPOSING ENDOCARDITIS ….” https://www.scienceopen.com/document?vid=02f2bbbe-479d-4d11-ad60-2ceba336a4e1. Accessed 4 Apr. 2022. Reference #2: "Bacteremia caused by group G Streptococci, taiwan - PubMed.” https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18439377/. Accessed 4 Apr. 2022. Reference #3: "Clinical relevance of vegetation localization by … - Semantic Scholar.” https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/Clinical-relevance-of-vegetation-localization-by-in-Rohmann-Erbel/0106e26e3f2102eb6dd2fd7e086210c0a44ebf45. Accessed 4 Apr. 2022. DISCLOSURES: No relevant relationships by Husam Bader No relevant relationships by Poorva Bhide No relevant relationships by Gaurav Mohan No relevant relationships by Muhammad Tayyeb No relevant relationships by Charmee Vyas No relevant relationships by Siva Naga Yarrarapu
ABSTRACT
SESSION TITLE: Post-COVID-19 Infection Complications SESSION TYPE: Case Report Posters PRESENTED ON: 10/17/2022 12:15 pm - 01:15 pm INTRODUCTION: Since the start of Covid-19 pandemic, several respiratory microorganisms have been identified that cause coinfection with Sars-Cov-2. Bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus and viruses like influenza are some of the identified pathogens. Rarely, fungal infections from Aspergillus are also being reported. CASE PRESENTATION: 59-year-old male with past medical history of hypertension and hyperlipidemia was admitted for shortness of breath and was found to be positive for Covid-19. He received Remdesivir, dexamethasone & tocilizumab. He required non-invasive ventilation via continuous positive airway pressure but continued to remain hypoxemic with elevated procalcitonin, he was treated with cefepime for bacterial pneumonia. Patient required emergent intubation and eventually underwent tracheostomy. He developed methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus pneumonia for which he received vancomycin. He was eventually discharged to long term acute care facility. Patient was readmitted after 2 months due to worsening respiratory status. Computed Tomography Angiography of chest was negative for pulmonary embolism but showed pleural effusion. He underwent thoracentesis which showed exudative effusion with negative cultures. Echocardiogram showed right heart failure. Patient's symptoms were believed to be due to Covid-19 fibrosis. He required home oxygen and also received pulmonary rehabilitation. One year after the initial Covid-19 infection, he developed pulmonary hypertension and was referred for lung transplant consultation. However, he developed severe hemoptysis requiring intubation and vasopressors. Galactomannan was positive, Karius digital culture revealed Aspergillus Niger for which he received voriconazole. He was not deemed a suitable candidate for lobectomy. Patient developed arrhythmia and had prolonged QT interval so voriconazole was switched to Isavuconazole. He continued to have hemoptysis and his condition did not improve so family requested to transition care and patient passed away. DISCUSSION: Several studies have proven co-infection of Aspergillus with Covid-19. This case highlights Aspergillus infection approximately 1 year after initial Covid-19 infection. Sars-Cov-2 causes damage to airway lining which can result in Aspergillus invading tissues. IL-6 is increased in severe Covid-19 infection. Tocilizumab is an anti-IL-6 receptor antibody that has been approved for treatment of Covid-19 pneumonia. However, IL-6 provides immunity against Aspergillus so use of tocilizumab decreases protection against Aspergillosis which is usually the reason for co-infection. However, in this case patient developed fungal infection later during Covid-19 fibrosis stage. CONCLUSIONS: Recognizing fungal etiology early on is important in Covid-19 patients as mortality is high and appropriate intervention can reduce morbidity and mortality. Some patient may eventually require lung resection. Reference #1: Kakamad FH, Mahmood SO, Rahim HM, Abdulla BA, Abdullah HO, Othman S, Mohammed SH, Kakamad SH, Mustafa SM, Salih AM. Post covid-19 invasive pulmonary Aspergillosis: a case report. International journal of surgery case reports. 2021 May 1;82:105865. Reference #2: Nasrullah A, Javed A, Malik K. Coronavirus Disease-Associated Pulmonary Aspergillosis: A Devastating Complication of COVID-19. Cureus. 2021 Jan 30;13(1). Reference #3: Dimopoulos G, Almyroudi MP, Myrianthefs P, Rello J. COVID-19-associated pulmonary aspergillosis (CAPA). Journal of Intensive Medicine. 2021 Oct 25;1(02):71-80. DISCLOSURES: No relevant relationships by Maria Haider Baig
ABSTRACT
SESSION TITLE: Complications of Thoracic Infections SESSION TYPE: Rapid Fire Case Reports PRESENTED ON: 10/18/2022 01:35 pm - 02:35 pm INTRODUCTION: Serratia marcescens is a gram negative bacteria known to colonize the human GI tract. While infections of urinary tract, respiratory tract, and CNS can occur, it is usually associated with immunocompromised hosts or patients who undergo invasive procedures or surgeries. Here, we present a 21-year-old immunocompetent male with Serratia marcescens cavitary pneumonia following COVID-19 infection. CASE PRESENTATION: A 21-year-old obese male with no past medical history presented with shortness of breath, cough and fevers for one week. In the emergency department (ED), he was febrile to 38.8°C, tachycardic, saturating 90% on room air. He was recently admitted to an outside hospital two weeks prior with COVID-19 pneumonia. He was treated with Remdesivir and decadron and discharged after five days. No invasive procedures were performed during his hospital stay and he never required advanced oxygen support other than simple nasal cannula. CTA of his chest in the ED showed thick walled bilateral lower lobe cavitary lesions and multifocal ground glass alveolar opacities. No pulmonary embolism was seen. Sputum cultures were collected but inadequate. Bronchoscopy with bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) was performed and fluid studies showed white blood cell count of 70,029 cell/uL, with 94% neutrophils. BAL fluid cultures grew Serratia marcescens. He was originally placed on vancomycin and cefepime and discharged on oral Levaquin for four weeks based on sensitivities. HIV testing was negative. DISCUSSION: Serratia is a rod shaped gram negative bacteria found in soil, water, and human gut flora. It is known to be an opportunistic pathogen that can cause urinary, respiratory, CNS and blood stream infections in immunocompromised patients. Infections in immunocompetent are usually associated with invasive devices such as mechanical ventilation or central venous catheters. While superimposed bacterial infections in COVID-19 illness are well known, they are usually seen in patients with severe disease requiring mechanical ventilation and prolonged hospitalization. Those with underlying systemic illness, advanced age and impaired immune systems are particularly susceptible. Our patient was young, immunocompetent and only required minimal oxygen support while hospitalized for COVID-19. CONCLUSIONS: Serratia marcescens pneumonia is rarely seen in immunocompetent hosts, but should remain on the differential in patients with recent hospitalization and COVID-19 infection, regardless of severity of disease. Reference #1: Hidron, A., Quiceno, W., Cardeño, J. J., Roncancio, G., & García, C. (2021). Post-COVID-19 Necrotizing Pneumonia in Patients on Invasive Mechanical Ventilation. Infectious Disease Reports, 13(3), 835–842. https://doi.org/10.3390/idr13030075 Reference #2: Fazio, G., Galioto, F., Ferlito, A., Coronella, M., Palmucci, S., & Basile, A. (2021). Cavitated pulmonary nodules in a female patient with breast cancer: Keep in mind Serratia marcescens’ infections. Respiratory Medicine Case Reports, 33, 101441. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.rmcr.2021.101441 Reference #3: Jose, M., & Desai, K. (2020). Fatal Superimposed Bacterial Sepsis in a Healthy Coronavirus (COVID-19) Patient. Cureus. https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.8350 DISCLOSURES: No relevant relationships by Lucy Checchio No relevant relationships by Syeda Hassan No relevant relationships by Jaclyn Rosenzweig No relevant relationships by Stephanie Tzarnas No relevant relationships by Laura Walters
ABSTRACT
SESSION TITLE: Global Pulmonary Cases SESSION TYPE: Global Case Reports PRESENTED ON: 10/19/2022 12:45 pm - 01:45 pm INTRODUCTION: COVID 19 is associated with hyper- inflammation with levels of IL 6 correlating with the severity of COVID 19. IL6 causes increased vascular permeability and endothelial dysfunction and plays a major role in the development of ARDS.[1] Tocilizumab is a monoclonal antibody against the IL6 receptor which is being used for COVID pneumonia. Large randomized controlled trials including REMAP-CAP and RECOVERY reported a mortality benefit of tocilizumab in certain patients [3]. Aspergillus is a mold that causes variety of pulmonary infections depending on host's immune status. In immunocompromised hosts, it causes invasive pulmonary aspergillosis [2]. Symptoms initially are similar to bronchopneumonia: cough with sputum, dyspnea, fever not responsive to antibiotics. With disease progression, patients experience pleuritic chest pain and hemoptysis. CASE PRESENTATION: 69 y/o female came to ER with complaint of dyspnea and cough. PMH significant for Diabetes. She had a recent admission for COVID 3 weeks ago during which she received tocilizumab. This time, her vitals were HR- 96 RR- 24 Temp- 99.6 BP- 124/72, Sat- 88% on 2L NC. Labs WBC 31.1 D dimer- 2.17 ABG PO2- 61. CT pulmonary angiogram was consistent with left mid lung zone cavitary mass with an air-fluid level measuring 5 x 8 cm in transverse and AP dimension. Patient was started on broad-spectrum antibiotics (vancomycin, cefepime, metronidazole). Sputum cultures, Beta glucan assay, AFB and fungal immunodiffusion panel was ordered. Beta D Glucan assay came positive. Fungal immunodiffusion panel was negative. Bronchoscopy was done and AFB, aspergillus antigen and cultures were collected. BAL aspergillus antigen came positive and KOH fungal culture grew Aspergillus Fumigatus. Voriconazole was started. She was discharged on voriconazole for 12 weeks, ceftriaxone and clindamycin for 6 weeks for antibacterial coverage with plan to repeat CT chest in 3 weeks. DISCUSSION: We use tocilizumab for COVID 19 patients requiring invasive or non invasive mechanical ventilation and CRP ≥7.5 and exclude patients with ANC <2000, platelet <50,000 and history of serious bacterial, fungal or viral infection. This patient did not have any exclusion criteria but developed invasive fungal infection 3-4 weeks later. Due to worsening hypoxia and high D dimer, initial consideration was pulmonary embolism for which CT angiogram was done and a cavitary lesion was found. Differentials were bacterial abscess, tuberculosis or fungal infection. BAL played a crucial role in diagnosing aspergillosis. CONCLUSIONS: In patients presenting with worsening respiratory symptoms post tocilizumab administration we must keep a low index of suspicion for superimposed opportunistic infections including aspergillosis. Appropriate workup including CT chest, sputum or bronchoalveolar lavage for cultures (bacterial, fungal), Beta D Glucan and fungal panel is essential for diagnosis. Reference #1: Tocilizumab in Hospitalized Patients with Severe Covid-19 Pneumonia Ivan O Rosas;Norbert Bräu;Michael Waters;et al. New England Journal of Medicine, v384 n16 (20210422): 1503-1516 Reference #2: Pulmonary aspergillosis: a clinical review M. Kousha, R. Tadi, A.O. Soubani European Respiratory Review 2011 20: 156-174;DOI: 10.1183/09059180.00001011 Reference #3: Interleukin-6 Inhibitors. Available at: https://www.covid19treatmentguidelines.nih.gov. DISCLOSURES: No relevant relationships by Shaylika Chauhan No relevant relationships by Vipul Gidwani