Disseminated Mucormycosis in a patient on long term immunosuppression: Severe fungal infections as multi-system disorders

Introduction: Mucormycosis is a rare, severe fungal infection with an incidence of 0.005 to 0.17 per million.1 but incidence has risen recently, particularly in the Asian subcontinent, due to use of immunosuppression for Covid19.2 Presentations can vary and are classified into: rhino-orbito-cerebral, pulmonary, cutaneous, disseminated, renal and gastrointestinal. Risk factors include diabetes, immunosuppression, iron overload, malnutrition, and prematurity.1,3 Although mucormycosis has an extremely high mortality rate and disseminated infection is usually fatal, treatment options exist if diagnosed early and surgical debridement may be curative. Objective(s): We present a case of mucormycois in a female patient in her 40s who was immunosuppressed with methotrexate for rheumatoid disease. This case is discussed to increase awareness of critical illness caused by opportunistic invasive fungal infections in immunosuppressed patients and promote timely identification and management. Method(s): We detail the clinical context and management of a patient with mucormycosis and discuss relevant literature. Result(s): A female patient in her 40s who had been experiencing upper respiratory tract symptoms for several weeks, including cough and brown sputum, was admitted with a presumptive diagnosis of methotrexate toxicity after a full blood count performed by the general practitioner demonstrated pancytopenia. Initially, National Early Warning System 2 score (NEWS2) was 2 but became intensely hypertensive during blood transfusion and then profoundly shocked with an escalating NEWS2. Broad-spectrum antibiotics and fluconazole were commenced for neutropenic sepsis and the patient was referred to critical care in multiple organ failure. Computerised tomography (CT) scan of the chest, abdomen and pelvis showed "left upper lobe consolidation, which with neutropenia might represent an angioinvasive aspergillosis". She had multiple areas of skin discolouration and desquamation. Haematology and Infectious Diseases opinions were sought, and a bone marrow biopsy was performed which showed severe toxic effects consistent with sepsis/life threatening infection. Progressive proptosis was noted, and CT scan of her head was requested. Sadly, she was never stable enough for CT transfer. Beta D Glucan and aspergillus antigen serology was negative. Broncho-alveolar lavage demonstrated Candida albicans and then, later, Rhizopus arrhizus was isolated and anti-fungal treatment changed to voriconazole and then amphotericin B. Upon reviewing the notes in light of the positive culture for Rhizopus, the patient had likely been exhibiting symptomatic Mucormycosis sinus infection for some time prior to this admission with disseminated infection. The patient's condition continued to deteriorate and she sadly died. Conclusion(s): * The Early Warning Score significantly underestimated how unwell the patient was upon arrival in ED, a systems-based assessment would have demonstrated that the patient had multiple system dysfunction and significant potential to deteriorate suddenly despite having stable observations * The methotrexate level has no clinical value in diagnosing or refuting a diagnosis of methotrexate toxicity * A full examination of the immunosuppressed patient including ENT is a necessity when searching for a source of infection * Invasive fungal infections can cause multi-system symptoms and atypical presentations * As a greater proportion of patients have received systemic immunosuppression for Covid-19, vigilance for more unusual pathogens, including Mucormycosis by clinicians is advised.

Lung cancer and Lambert-Eaton syndrome concealed by COVID-19

COVID-19, which infects millions of people worldwide, can affect many organs and systems, mainly the lungs, heart, brain, kidneys, vascular endothelium and bone marrow. As a result, it causes a wide range of complications such as ARDS, acute coronary syndrome, delirium, pancytopenia, DIC, kidney damage. There-fore, in the presence of COVID-19, some diseases that progress rapidly and which can cause similar complications may be concealed. In our article, we aimed to describe a patient who was missed due to the adverse effects of the pandemic period and because the COVID-19 infection may cause similar findings, although he admitted to emergency clinic twice before. In a pancytopenic patient suffering from intermittent fever, exhaustion, myalgia and arthralgia for several months, the diagnosis of small cell lung cancer, bone marrow metastasis and Lambert Eaton Myasthenic Syndrome (LEMS) was delayed due to the presence of COVID-19 infection. Therefore, the patient died in a short time. It was presented because it is a rare case and can lead to serious consequences if not imagined.Copyright © 2021, Derman Medical Publishing. All rights reserved.

Long-Term Efficacy and Safety of Upadacitinib in Patients with Psoriatic Arthritis Refractory to Biologic Therapies: 2-Year Results from the Phase 3 Select-Psa 2 Study

Background/Aims Upadacitinib (UPA), an oral Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitor, demonstrated efficacy and safety in patients (pts) with psoriatic arthritis (PsA) and prior inadequate response or intolerance to >=1 biologic disease modifying antirheumatic drug (bDMARD) at week (wk) 56 in the phase 3 SELECT-PsA 2 study. We aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of UPA at wk 104 from the ongoing long-term extension of SELECTPsA 2. Methods Pts were randomized to UPA 15mg (UPA15), UPA 30mg (UPA30), or placebo (PBO) for 24 wks;PBO pts were then switched to UPA15 or UPA30. For continuous UPA treatment groups, efficacy endpoints at wk 104 were analyzed using non-responder imputation (NRI) and as observed (AO) (binary endpoints) or mixed-effect model repeated measures (MMRM) and AO (continuous endpoints). Treatmentemergent adverse events (TEAEs) were summarized for pts who received >=1 dose of study drug using visit-based cut-off at wk 104. Results A total of 641 pts received >=1 dose of study drug. At wk 104, 38.4% of all patients had discontinued study drug, with the highest discontinuation observed in patients randomized to PBO at baseline (all PBO: 46.7%). The most common reasons for discontinuation were lack of efficacy (UPA15: 12.3%, UPA30: 8.7%, all PBO: 21.7%) and adverse event (UPA15: 10.9%, UPA30: 13.3%, all PBO: 12.7%). The proportion of UPA pts that achieved ACR20/50/70, MDA, PASI75/90/100, and resolution of dactylitis and enthesitis were generally similar, or further improved, with 104 wks of treatment vs 56 wks. Similarly, mean change from baseline in HAQ-DI, patient's assessment of pain, BASDAI, and ASDAS was improved with UPA treatment. At 104 wks of therapy, clinical responses were largely similar with UPA15 and UPA30. Generally, safety data at wk 104 were consistent with that reported at wk 56. Rates of serious infection, herpes zoster, hepatic disorder, anemia, neutropenia, lymphopenia, and CPK elevation remained numerically higher with UPA30 vs UPA15, while rates of malignancies, MACE, and VTE were similar for both UPA groups. One death was reported with UPA15 (unexplained due to lack of information;however, the patient had recently been diagnosed with ovarian cancer) and two with UPA30 (pancytopenia and COVID-19 pneumonia). Conclusion In PsA pts with prior inadequate response or intolerance to>=1 bDMARD, clinical responses were maintained with UPA15 and UPA30 up to two years of treatment. No new safety signals were identified in this long-term extension.

Esophageal Mucosal Calcinosis: A Rare Site of Calcium Deposition in End-Stage Renal Disease

Introduction: Calciphylaxis, otherwise known as calcium uremic arteriolopathy, is defined as calcium deposition around blood vessels in skin and fat tissue which occurs in 1-4% of patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD). Calcium deposition in the esophagus is extremely rare;to date, there have been only 4 cases reported worldwide. We report the fifth case of esophageal mucosal calcinosis occurring in a young male with ESRD. Case Description/Methods: A 37-year-old Thai man with ESRD on peritoneal dialysis since 2005 presented with generalized weakness and odynophagia due to oral ulcers, resulting in poor PO intake. He denied drinking alcohol, illicit drug use, or smoking. On exam his abdomen was soft, non-distended, non-tender, without any guarding. Past medical history included hypertension and COVID-19 in January 2022. Laboratory tests revealed neutropenia and pancytopenia, hyperphosphatemia, and hypocalcemia. EGD revealed distal esophageal esophagitis and hemorrhagic erosive gastropathy. Biopsy showed ulcerative esophagitis with dystrophic calcification, consistent with esophageal mucosal calcinosis .No intestinal metaplasia was noted. Immunohistochemistry was negative for CMV, HSV1, and HSV2. The patient was treated with pantoprazole 40mg IV every 12 hours, Magic Mouthwash 5ml qid, and Carafate 10mg qid. He was transferred to a cancer center where he had a bone marrow biopsy formed which was negative. His symptoms resolved and the patient was discharged to home (Figure). Discussion(s): Esophageal mucosal calcinosis is extremely rare. It is due to a combination of factors involving acidosis and the phenotypic differentiation (and apoptosis) of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC) into chondrocytes or osteoblast-like cells. These changes, along with the passive accumulation of calcium and phosphate, induce calcification. Acidosis is well-known to promote inflammation of the arterial walls, releasing cytokines that induce vascular calcification. The benefits of treatment with sodium thiosulfate remain unclear. An ample collection of cases should help devise standardized treatment options and establish management guidelines for this condition.

Activated CD8 T-cell hepatitis in children: a single institution experience

Background: Pediatric acute liver failure is a rare and serious life-threatening situation, principally for the 30 to 50% of children in whom the etiology of their liver failure is unclear or indeterminate. Treating these patients is challenging, requiring constant assessment over time with regular evaluation for possible liver transplantation. Children with pediatric acute liver failure of undetermined etiology have lower spontaneous survival and higher rates of transplantation and death than other diagnostic groups. Emerging evidence suggests that a subgroup of patients with indeterminate pediatric acute liver failure have clinical, laboratory, and liver biopsy features of immune dysregulation with a dense infiltration of CD8 T cells. Method(s): In 2022, we received percutaneous liver biopsies from three children with acute hepatic dysfunction that showed an increased number of lymphocytes including CD8 T cells. For each case, routine H&E stains with levels, special stains and immunostains were performed. The first biopsy was from an 18-month-old male who presented with COVID infection, pancytopenia, elevated transaminases, and synthetic liver dysfunction (elevated INR). The second was from a 9-year-old female with a history of elevated liver enzymes with no clear cause. The third case was from a 2-year-old male with elevated liver enzymes, coagulopathy, and cholestasis. Result(s): The three cases showed similar histopathologic findings;an acute liver injury pattern with lobular architectural disarray, giant cell formation, reactive changes, single cell necrosis, cholestasis and marked mixed lymphocytic infiltrates. The infiltrates were predominantly composed of CD8-positive T-lymphocytes with scattered neutrophils, eosinophils and rare plasma cells. Portal areas were mildly expanded with mild bile ductular proliferation and mild to moderate lymphocytic infiltrates. Immunostains for CD8 demonstrated that the infiltrates were predominantly composed of CD8-positive T-lymphocytes. All three patients received steroids and responded to treatment evidenced by normalization of liver enzymes and function. Conclusion(s): Dense hepatic CD8 T-cell infiltration is a major finding inactivated CD8 T-cell hepatitis. However, the percentage distribution of lymphocyte subtypes in the setting of hepatitis is not well established, and CD8 T-cell infiltration has also been described in cases of drug-induced hypersensitivity reactions, viral hepatitis, hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis, and macrophage activation syndrome, as well as autoimmune hepatitis. Further investigation is needed to better understand the diagnostic criteria in this disease.

Anaphylaxis to Cyclophosphamide Metabolites during Lymphodepletion for CAR-T Therapy

Background: Cyclophosphamide (Cy) is used in hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) preparative regimens and lymphodepletion for chimeric antigen receptor T-cell (CAR-T) therapy. We describe a case of cyclophosphamide hypersensitivity in a pediatric patient during CAR-T therapy. Case description: A 13 year old boy was diagnosed with very high risk ALL in 2015 and had 2 isolated CNS relapses treated with intensified chemotherapy (chemo) and cranial radiation (1st relapse) and Blinatumomab with intrathecal (IT) chemo followed by sibling donor HSCT (2nd relapse). At age 19, and 18 months after HSCT, he had a 3rd CNS relapse treated with IT chemo and referral for CAR-T therapy. At our center, leukapheresis and CAR-T production (Novartis) were performed. Later, during lymphodepletion with fludarabine (Flu) and Cy, physiologic replacement hydrocortisone (HC) was briefly held to prevent interference with CAR-T function. After 3 days of Flu/Cy, he developed fever and hypotension requiring inotropic support. Hypotension and fever resolved with stress dose HC and antibiotics and was attributed to culture-negative sepsis and adrenal crisis. CAR-T infusion was subsequently delayed by skin GVHD requiring glucocorticoids and COVID-19 infection treated with convalescent plasma and nirmatrelvir/ritonavir. Physiologic HC replacement was continued when he was re-admitted for CAR-T therapy, but he again developed fever, diffuse erythema and shock in hours following the first dose of Cy necessitating stress dose HC, antibiotics, inotropes, and mechanical ventilation. Negative blood cultures and ongoing physiologic HC replacement suggested an alternative explanation for shock. Case reports of anaphylaxis to Cy metabolites implicated Cy as the causative agent so it was discontinued. After recovery, CAR-T cells were infused without complications. In the following weeks, he had no evidence of recurrent leukemia but was persistently pancytopenic. A sibling donor stem cell boost was proposed but the patient accepted only palliative care. He had several opportunistic infections before succumbing to E. coli sepsis. Discussion(s): The first episode of shock was initially attributed to adrenal crisis and sepsis, although no organism was identified. The second episode appeared anaphylactic in timing and clinical presentation with adequate HC replacement and negative cultures, suggesting Type I hypersensitivity. The patient previously received Cy uneventfully before HSCT, suggesting that the donor-derived immune system was the source of new Cy hypersensitivity. Onset of anaphylaxis within hours rather than minutes after Cy administration supports hypersensitivity to Cy metabolites rather than to the drug itself. This case highlights the importance of consideration of sensitivity to Cy metabolites as well as acquired donor-specific allergy even when alternative explanations are likely.Copyright © 2023 American Society for Transplantation and Cellular Therapy

Solid organ graft-versus-host disease in a recipient of a COVID-19 positive liver graft

A 66-year-old male with end-stage liver disease (ESLD) secondary to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), complicated by hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), underwent deceased donor liver transplantation from a Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) positive donor. He presented a month later with fever, diarrhea and pancytopenia which led to hospitalization. The hospital course was notable for respiratory failure, attributed to invasive aspergillosis, as well as a diffuse rash. A bone marrow biopsy revealed hypocellular marrow without specific findings. In the following days, laboratory parameters raised concern for secondary hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH). Clinical concern also grew for solid organ transplant graft-versus-host-disease (SOT-GVHD) based on repeat marrow biopsy with elevated donor-derived CD3+ T cells on chimerism. After, a multidisciplinary discussion, the patient was started on ruxolitinib, in addition to high dose steroids, to address both SOT-GVHD and secondary HLH. Patient developed symptoms concerning for hemorrhagic stroke and was transitioned to comfort care. Although GVHD has been studied extensively in hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) patients, it is a rare entity in SOT with a lack of guidelines for management. Additionally, whether COVID-19 may play a role in development of SOT-GVDH has not been explored.Copyright © 2023 The Authors

Hairy Cell Leukemia in a Filipino Male during the COVID-19 Pandemic - Report of a Rare Case

Hairy cell leukemia (HCL) is a rare, chronic, mature B-cell lymphoproliferative disorder accounting for 2% of all leukemias. In this paper, we would like to present our experience in the management of HCL in a financially limited setting where other diagnostic tests and chemotherapy are unavailable. The case report aims to emphasize the recognition of the distinctive morphology of hairy cells in the peripheral blood in the consideration of the initial diagnosis. A 60-year-old Filipino male was incidentally found to have anemia, thrombocytopenia and an absolute neutrophilic count below 1,000 in a pre-operative clearance for elective herniorrhaphy. Blood smear revealed atypical lymphocytes with hair like cytoplasmic projections. CT-scan of the abdomen showed splenomegaly and prominent paraaortic nodes. Flow cytometry of the bone marrow aspirate was consistent with an involvement of a Mature B cell neoplasm markers CD19, CD20, CD22 and surface immunoglobulin lambda and hairy cell leukemia markers CD11c, CD103 and CD25. He responded to six-weekly sessions of Cladribine with remission of the bone marrow and hematologic parameters. HCL is a rare type of a mature B cell neoplasm characterized by pancytopenia, splenomegaly, bone marrow fibrosis and the presence of atypical lymphoid cells with hairy projections in blood, bone marrow and spleen. Immunophenotyping express CD11c, CD103, CD123, and CD25. BRAF V600E mutation is the disease defining genetic event. Cladribine and Pentostatin are the first line of treatment. Cases of leukemia can be easily overlooked because of the mild derangement in the complete blood count. A meticulous differential review of the atypical lymphocyte, is the first step in the diagnosis of this rare disease.Copyright © 2022, Philippine College of Physicians. All rights reserved.

Cytomegalovirus reactivation following COVID-19 vaccination: A case report

Case report Cytomegalovirus (CMV) causes latent asymptomatic infection in most adults worldwide. Immunodeficiency or immune activation can disrupt viral suppression and lead to viral reactivation, occasionally causing a mononucleosis-like illness in otherwise healthy immunocompetent people. A 37-year- old female presented with a 10-day history of fevers, chills, right-sided neck tenderness, rapidly expanding rash, as well as myalgia, arthralgia, and weakness. She had received her first dose of tozinameran (Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 mRNA vaccine) 11 days prior to symptom onset. She was admitted to hospital for further investigations, and was seen by an allergy/clinical immunology specialist, with the diagnosis initially felt to be a delayed serum sickness-like reaction to the vaccine. On admission to hospital, the patient was febrile (37.8C) and tachycardic (122 beats/min). Her physical examination was remarkable for right-sided submandibular tenderness, diffuse blanchable, nonpruritic, erythematous, maculopapular rash, and mild facial swelling. There were no effused joints, lymphadenopathy, nor splenomegaly. Bloodwork showed pancytopenia and mild liver transaminase elevation. Blood cultures were negative. Multiple PCR tests for COVID-19 were negative. Monospot and serology for HBV, HIV, and B. burgdorferi were negative. CMV serology was positive, but unavailable until after discharge. ANA and rheumatoid factor were negative. CT head demonstrated nonspecific edema in the right submandibular area without abscess. On outpatient follow-up, the patient reported symptom resolution over two months. Repeat CMV titres two months post hospitalisation showed strongly elevated IgG, which upon consultation with infectious diseases was felt to represent CMV reactivation (Table 1). CMV viral load was negative. Pancytopenia resolved and transaminases normalized. She received her second dose of tozinameran 4 months post first dose with prophylactic valacyclovir 1g once daily for 1 week prior to and 1 week post vaccination as recommended by infectious diseases and remained asymptomatic. This case is the first known description of CMV reactivation secondary to COVID-19 vaccination. It may be underdiagnosed due to nonspecific symptomatology, as CMV seropositivity ranges from 60-100% of all adults. While causality has yet to be established, recognition of this condition may allow appropriate treatment and prophylaxis in order to facilitate safe COVID-19 vaccination in affected individuals. The patient has provided verbal consent through the telephone for the publication of this case report due to the current COVID-19 pandemic, with written consent to follow.

Tick-Borne Illness Ticking Off the Heart: A Case of Cardiomyopathy Due to Anaplasmosis

Background Human granulocytic anaplasmosis (HGA) is a tick-borne disease caused by Anaplasma phagocytophilum. The most common presenting features are transaminitis, leukopenia, thrombocytopenia, fever, and malaise. HGA causing cardiomyopathy likely from myocarditis is uncommon but a serious complication. Case A 70 year-old male with a history of coronary artery disease presented with fever (38.3 C) and dyspnea on exertion. He was found to have hypoxic respiratory failure, pancytopenia, acute kidney injury and transaminitis. He was treated empirically with ceftriaxone and doxycline. Baseline electrocardiogram was unremarkable for ischemia. However, he had troponin elevation and was decompensated on exam. Bedside transthoracic echocardiogram (TTE) showed LVEF of 20-25% for which he was administered dobutamine and monitored in intensive care unit (ICU). Repeat TTE illustrated LVEF 30-35% with moderate diffuse hypokinesis of LV. Blood and urine cultures were negative. He tested positive for Anaplasma DNA-PCR with unremarkable rest of the tick borne, viral and parasitic panel. He was then continued with doxycycline for 14 days for sepsis due to Anaplasmosis. Follow up TTE in a month showed improved LVEF to 40% with resolution of his symptoms. Decision-making Our patient presented with common tick-borne illness symptoms and signs, which prompted initiation of empiric antibiotics. However, the significantly reduced LVEF and elevated troponins were concerning for which he was monitored in ICU. Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging was not pursued due to delay in transfer process to the higher center amidst COVID pandemic and ongoing sepsis due to Anaplasmosis. After the results of HGA PCR, he was continued on a 14-day course of doxycycline which eventually resolved his symptoms. Conclusion There must be a high level of suspicion for cardiomyopathy if the patient is being empirically treated for tick-borne illness and has decompensated heart failure symptoms. PCR is the most sensitive test for diagnosing HGA. However, the test results should not delay the treatment as tick-borne illness responds well to doxycycline which should alleviate the heart failure symptoms as seen in our case.Copyright © 2023 American College of Cardiology Foundation

Clinical case of COVID-19 course in a child with aplastic anemia.

The problem of the non-smooth course of COVID-19 and deaths in children with severe comorbid pathology is urgent. Among all registered cases of a new coronavirus infection in the Russian Federation, children account for up to 8,6%, of which severe forms are noted, as a rule, in patients with concomitant diseases. A clinical observation of the course of a new coronavirus infection in a child with a severe form of idiopathic aplastic anemia complicated by pancytopenia is presented. COVID-19 infection caused a sharp deterioration in the child's condition. Despite the use of modern methods of therapy, there was a rapid deterioration of clinical and laboratory parameters: an increase in febrility, respiratory failure, interstitial changes in the lungs, a decrease in oxygen saturation to 70%, hemorrhagic, anemic syndromes and multiple organ failure with the development of a fatal outcome. Aplastic anemia is a factor predisposing to the severe course of COVID-19 and contributing to an unfavorable outcome.Copyright © 2022 Interregional public organization Association of infectious disease specialists of Saint-Petersburg and Leningrad region (IPO AIDSSPbR). All rights reserved.

The First Case of Haemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis Triggered by the Booster Dose of Anti-SARS-CoV-2 Vaccine in a Patient with β-Thalassemia

Background: Haemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) is a rare and potentially life-threatening systemic hyperinflammatory disease, which can have several aetiologies. Clinical case: a 48-year-old woman affected by a transfusion-dependent β-thalassemia was hospitalized in our haematology unit presenting with intermittent fever, haepatosplenomegaly and pancytopenia, which developed a few days after the booster dose of anti-SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccine. The investigations performed during hospitalization led to a diagnosis of HLH and steroid therapy where IV dexam-ethasone was initiated and provided benefits. Conclusions: the severity of HLH mandates early treatment, but the management of patients with post-vaccine HLH is still challenging and requires further study. No cases of HLH in patients with thalassemia were previously described.

Prolonged Thrombocytopenia in a Case of MIS-C in a Vaccinated Child.

Multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) has been extensively described in patients following severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection. There are now questions about what MIS-C may look like in vaccinated children. Multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children has many clinical and laboratory features in common with other inflammatory disorders including Kawasaki disease and toxic shock syndrome. Rheumatologic conditions can present with similar musculoskeletal complaints and elevated inflammatory markers. Laboratory markers and clinical symptoms of MIS-C usually improve once therapy is begun. We describe a child with persistent thrombocytopenia as an example of variable presentation of MIS-C in vaccinated children. This case report discusses an atypical progression of MIS-C in a vaccinated child with a known prior positive COVID-19 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test. She presented with nonspecific abdominal pain and fever and was found to have elevated inflammatory markers, lymphopenia, and thrombocytopenia. Intravenous immunoglobulin and steroid treatment failed to induce rapid recovery in her clinical condition or thrombocytopenia. Rheumatologic, hematologic, oncologic, and infectious causes were considered and worked up due to the uncertainty of her case and persistence of pancytopenia but ultimately were ruled out with extensive testing and monitoring. It was key to include a broad differential including viral-induced bone marrow suppression, idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura, secondary hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis, systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis, and malignancy. The spectrum of MIS-C and response to treatment continues to evolve, and prior vaccination in this child's case complicated the clinical picture further. Additional evaluation of MIS-C in vaccinated cases will permit characterization of the range of MIS-C presentation and response to standard therapy.

Prolonged fever and inflammation in a young child in the midst of the pandemic - it's not always MIS-C

Case Report: Prolonged fever in children is a symptom that is seen in many different diseases, infections, malignancies, and autoimmune conditions. This can, at times, make the correct diagnosis challenging. A previously healthy 10-year-old male was transferred to our institution with one week history of fever, fatigue, abdominal pain, and vomiting. Laboratory studies demonstrated pancytopenia, transaminitis, electrolyte abnormalities, elevated pro-inflammatory markers & D-Dimer, and hypoalbuminemia. COVID-19 IgG was reactive. Due to the severity in presentation the patient was transferred to the ICU with a presumptive diagnosis of MIS-C. Hewas started on IVIG as well as a five-day course of high-dose methylprednisolone per protocol. Aspirin was added, but later discontinued, due to worsening thrombocytopenia. CT imaging with contrast showed small bilateral pleural effusions & periportal edema, mild splenomegaly, and echocardiogram showed diffuse dilation of the left main and left anterior descending arteries. Given the laboratory findings the differential diagnosis was expanded, Ehrlichia caffeensis serology was sent and empiric Doxycycline started. EBV Nuclear Antigen IgG antibody and EBV Viral Capsid Antigen IgM Antibody resulted as positive suggesting recent or reactivated infection. Respiratory viral PCR with COVID-19, Cytomegalovirus and Parvovirus PCR were negative. Despite initial treatment, the patient continued to have persistent fever, severe pancytopenia, and high ferritin up to 24 426 ng/mL, raising suspicion for Haemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis (HLH). Soluble interleukin-2 level was elevated & his presentation was then considered to be more consistent with HLH given that he met 6/8 criteria. Screening for primary HLH including CD107a, perforin and granzyme B, SAP, and XIAP resulted in the latter three being normal but CD107a was abnormal. Next generation sequencing for primary criteria was negative. E. Chaffeensis resulted positive: IgM 1:80, IgG 1:256. MIS-C and HLH have overlapping features but differ in some clinical manifestations. Timely recognition and management is paramount as the management differs. This case illustrates the importance of performing a broad search for potential causes, allowing for appropriate and timely treatment. COVID-19 serology alone should not be the basis for diagnosis of MIS-C in a patient with fever and inflammation. This is important as SARS-CoV2 becomes endemic. Infections such as EBV and Ehrlichiosis should be on the differential particularly in endemic areas and during seasons of higher prevalence for the latter, as these have been well documented to cause HLH. Copyright © 2023 Southern Society for Clinical Investigation.

Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis Following COVID-19 Infection.

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), has been associated with multiple inflammatory symptoms involving several organ systems, including hematologic manifestations. Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) is a life-threatening syndrome caused by excessive inflammation in the absence of immune regulation. We present the case of a patient with HLH secondary to dysregulated inflammatory response following COVID-19; we also describe the diagnostic and management challenges associated with the condition.

COVID-19 and Subsequent Development of Pancytopenia With Concurrent Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation.

Complications resulting from coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) sequelae have been well documented. These include blood conditions such as lymphopenia, thrombocytopenia, and hypercoagulability. Less common problems that may arise are disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP), and pancytopenia. Furthermore, the majority of COVID-19 patients to develop pancytopenia have been immunosuppressed. We present a case of a previously immunocompetent patient who subsequently developed pancytopenia, DIC, as well as symptoms of ITP one month after being diagnosed with COVID-19.

A fatal SARS-coronavirus-2 induced bone marrow aplasia complicated with invasive fungal infection and severe neutropenic enterocolitis.

BACKGROUND: Immunization against the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) began in January 2021 in Iran; nonetheless, due to a lack of vaccination among children under 12, this age group is still at risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection and its complications. CASE PRESENTATION: SARS-CoV-2 infection was diagnosed in a 6-year-old girl who had previously been healthy but had developed a fever and pancytopenia. The bone marrow aspiration/biopsy demonstrated just hypocellular marrow without signs of leukemia. She was worked up for primary and secondary causes of pancytopenia. Except for a repeated reactive HIV antibody/Ag P24 assay, all test results were inconclusive. After a thorough diagnostic investigation, the cross-reactivity of the HIV antibody/Ag P24 test with SARS-CoV-2 antibodies was confirmed. The patient did not develop any COVID-19-related signs and symptoms, but she did get a severe invasive fungal infection and neutropenic enterocolitis. She died as a result of disseminated intravascular coagulopathy. CONCLUSION: It is critical to recognize children infected with SARS-CoV-2 who exhibit atypical clinical manifestations of COVID-19, such as persistent pancytopenia. SARS-CoV-2 infection can cause severe and deadly consequences in children; thus, pediatricians should be aware of COVID-19's unusual signs and symptoms mimicking other conditions such as aplastic anemia.

CYSTIC LUNG DISEASE IN A YOUNG MALE WITH SYSTEMIC LUPUS ERYTHEMATOSUS

SESSION TITLE: Challenges in Cystic Fibrosis Case Posters SESSION TYPE: Case Report Posters PRESENTED ON: 10/19/2022 12:45 pm - 1:45 pm INTRODUCTION: Pulmonary involvement in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) is seen in 30-50% of patients (most commonly Nonspecific Interstitial Pneumonitis) but cystic lung disease is extremely rare (1). Lymphoid interstitial pneumonia (LIP) is an inflammatory lung disease that is characterized by infiltration of lymphocytes and plasma cells (2), and associated with lung cysts. Oftentimes, it is associated with HIV, lymphoma, and primary Sjogren's Syndrome (SS) (2), however there are rare reports of LIP associated with SLE (1). We present a case of a young male with incidental lung cysts who was found to have a new diagnosis of SLE. CASE PRESENTATION: A 24-year-old male with a past medical history of premature birth at 5 months and prior mild COVID-19 infection presented with 3 weeks of abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, fever, and unintentional 15-pound weight loss. He endorsed dry mouth, frequent cavities, and a new rash involving his chest, face, and lower extremities. Physical exam was significant for malar rash and dry mucous membranes. Labs revealed pancytopenia, sedimentation rate 61 mm/hour and C-reactive protein 5.54 mg/L. Computed tomography (CT) of the chest showed several thin-walled cysts in all bilateral lung lobes (predominant in right upper lobe) and bilateral axillary lymph nodes [Figure 1]. CT abdomen and pelvis was unremarkable. Autoimmune work-up resulted in a positive antinuclear antibody >1:1280, double stranded DNA antibody elevated at 34, elevated SSA and SSB antibodies (>8.0 and 1.4 respectively), and decreased Complement 3 (59.5 mg/dl) and 4 (10.1 mg/dl) levels. Peripheral smear, right axillary lymph node and bone marrow biopsies were negative for malignancy. He was started on prednisone and Plaquenil with symptomatic improvement. There is high suspicion of LIP given the clinical and radiological findings. He will follow up in clinic to obtain PFTs and schedule a lung biopsy. DISCUSSION: Interstitial lung disease in SLE presents in middle-aged patients at a later part of their disease course, with a female preponderance (2,3). An initial presentation of SLE and secondary SS in a young male and associated cystic lung disease is rare. The suspicion for LIP in association with SLE is high in our patient given variable size and distribution of lung cysts and coexisting secondary Sjogren's syndrome, although no ground glass or nodular opacities were found on CT chest as reported in typical LIP (3). Though this patient has no pulmonary symptoms, cysts/LIP in SLE tend to progress and have a high incidence of developing lymphomas, gammaglobulinemia and amyloidosis (2,3). CONCLUSIONS: It is important to establish a histopathological diagnosis and obtain baseline PFTs to monitor pulmonary disease manifestations. In addition to controlling the primary disease with antirheumatic drugs, steroids have been found to be useful in acute pulmonary flares (2). Reference #1: Maeda R, Isowa N, Miura H, Tokuyasu H. Systemic lupus erythematosus with multiple lung cysts. Interact Cardiovasc Thorac Surg. 2009 Jun;8(6):701-2. doi: 10.1510/icvts.2008.200055. Epub 2009 Mar 12. PMID: 19282324. Reference #2: Yood RA, Steigman DM, Gill LR. Lymphocytic interstitial pneumonitis in a patient with systemic lupus erythematosus. Lupus. 1995 Apr;4(2):161-3. doi: 10.1177/096120339500400217. PMID: 7795624. Reference #3: Filipek MS, Thompson ME, Wang PL, Gosselin MV, L Primack S. Lymphocytic interstitial pneumonitis in a patient with systemic lupus erythematosus: radiographic and high-resolution CT findings. J Thorac Imaging. 2004 Jul;19(3):200-3. doi: 10.1097/01.rti.0000099464.94973.51. PMID: 15273618. DISCLOSURES: No relevant relationships by Matthew Fain No relevant relationships by Christina Fanous No relevant relationships by Rathnavali Katragadda No relevant relationships by CHRISELYN PALMA

PROLONGED COLONIZATION AND COISOLATION OF SARS-COV-2 IN UNVACCINATED RECIPIENTS OF LUNG TRANSPLANTS

SESSION TITLE: Pulmonary Issues in Transplantation Case Report Posters SESSION TYPE: Case Report Posters PRESENTED ON: 10/19/2022 12:45 pm - 01:45 pm INTRODUCTION: We describe two unvaccinated lung transplant recipients (LTRs) with mild COVID-19 and prolonged SARS-CoV-2 colonization who presented with recrudescence of symptoms due to superinfection. CASE PRESENTATION: Case 1: A 57-year-old LTR (August 2018) presented to the emergency room (ER) in July 2020 with headache, positive SARS-CoV-2 nasopharyngeal swab-PCR result, and elevated D-Dimer. He recovered at home and tested negative for SARS-CoV-2 on day 28. He presented to the ER again in October 2020 with chest pain. At this time, evaluation revealed a positive SARS-CoV-2 nasopharyngeal swab-PCR result, positive SARS-CoV-2 IgG (index 3.41), leukocytosis, and elevated inflammatory markers. Of note, nasopharyngeal swab was also positive for rhinovirus. Imaging showed new mild bibasilar ground-glass opacities. Patient was treated with remdesevir, convalescent plasma, and pulse corticosteroid. His SARS-CoV-2 PCR test was negative on day 3 of the remdesevir regimen;he remains clear of SARS-CoV-2 and rhinovirus to date, with complete clinical and radiologic recovery (Figure 1, Case 1). His immunosuppression was unchanged. Case 2: A 75-year-old LTR (July 2016) with pancytopenia presented for a sick visit in May 2020 with cough and fever. His SARS-CoV-2 nasal wash-PCR test was positive;imaging was unremarkable. He was sent home on pulse corticosteroid and levofloxacin. A week later in June 2020, he presented to the ER with worsening cough. At this time, evaluation revealed positive SARS-CoV-2 IgG (index 7.58), leucopenia, thrombocytopenia, elevated inflammatory markers, and new radiographic bibasilar ground-glass opacities (Figure 1, Case 2). His condition improved with intravenous antibiotics and corticosteroids. He consistently tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 in nasal wash samples for 3 months, with the first negative test in September 2020. He was hospitalized in January 2021 for neutropenic fever, P. Aeruginosa (PsA) infection in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL), and anti-PsA antibodies in the serum. At this time, he also had SARS-CoV-2 colonization in BAL despite negative PCR results of nasal wash samples. His condition improved with 14 days of antibiotics. He was stable at his last follow-up. DISCUSSION: Both patients had an initial episode of mild COVID-19 pneumonitis, appropriate seroconversion, and prolonged viral colonization in the respiratory tract. Immunosuppression may have predisposed to rhinovirus and PsA superinfection in case 1 and 2, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: A high index of suspicion for superimposed infections in LTRs recovering from COVID-19 is warranted. Reference #1: 1. Hogan JI, Kotton CN. A Call for Caution in the Immunocompromised: Coronavirus Disease 2019 Associated With Mortality in a Vaccinated Lung Transplant Recipient. Open Forum Infect Dis. 2021 Nov 10;8(12):ofab557. DISCLOSURES: No relevant relationships by Hesham Abdelrazek No relevant relationships by Ashwini Arjuna No relevant relationships by Bhuvin Buddhdev No relevant relationships by Deepika Razia No relevant relationships by Rajat Walia, value=Honoraria Removed 04/04/2022 by Rajat Walia No relevant relationships by Rajat Walia, value=Honoraria Removed 04/04/2022 by Rajat Walia No relevant relationships by Rajat Walia, value=Honoraria Removed 04/04/2022 by Rajat Walia No relevant relationships by Rajat Walia, value=Honoraria Removed 04/04/2022 by Rajat Walia No relevant relationships by Rajat Walia, value=Honoraria Removed 04/04/2022 by Rajat Walia

A CASE OF LOMUSTINE-INDUCED PNEUMONITIS

SESSION TITLE: Drug-Induced Lung Injury and Disease SESSION TYPE: Rapid Fire Case Reports PRESENTED ON: 10/18/2022 01:35 pm - 02:35 pm INTRODUCTION: Lomustine, a nitrosurea, inhibits DNA, RNA, and protein synthesis by carbamylation and alkylation, leading to cytotoxic effects 1, 3. Its concentration is high in the central nervous system (CNS) and therefore is commonly used for the management of CNS tumors including recurrent glioblastoma. While known side effects include pancytopenia, few pulmonary toxicities have been reported. This case is a rare example of lomustine induced pneumonitis. CASE PRESENTATION: A 54-year-old female with a history of glioblastoma, treated with a combination of surgical resection, radiation therapy, and temozolomide followed by stereotactic surgery and bevacizumab after disease recurrence, developed progressive dyspnea after initiating lomustine. She had received one dose of lomustine 90 mg/m2 two months prior to developing dyspnea upon exertion. At baseline, she was an active individual who played sports. A chest computed tomography (CT) scan preformed ten months prior was without any parenchymal abnormalities, and pulmonary function tests (PFTs) two months prior were normal with an adjusted DLCO of 15.4 mL/mmHg/min (88%). Repeat chest CT revealed diffuse ground glass opacities, and repeat PFTs showed a moderately impaired adjusted DLCO of 10.4 mL/mmHg/min (60%). Other lab evaluation, CBC, BNP, troponin, and COVID PCR, were negative. After receiving six weeks of steroids, there was resolution of CT findings, improvement of DLCO, and relief from symptoms. DISCUSSION: More common adverse effects of lomustine are GI discomfort and pancytopenia. It is less widely documented to cause pulmonary toxicity compared to its chemical relative carmustine 1, 3. This is perhaps due to decreased alkylation ability and penetration into the lung tissue by lomustine7. There have been few case reports revealing pneumonitis and pulmonary fibrosis. Lomustine induced pneumonitis induces acute parenchymal changes of the lung demonstrated by characteristic symptoms and imaging/biopsies abnormalities after initiation of a drug. 2 Findings include breathlessness, dyspnea upon exertion, cough, hypoxia, crackles upon lung auscultation. PFT's may show a restrictive pattern with decreased FEV1/FVC ratio and DLCO. Imaging may reveal diffuse groundglass opacities, traction bronchiectasis, interlobular septal thickening, and honeycombing. Bronchoscopy with lavage would rule out infection. Management involves discontinuation of culprit medication, immunosuppression, and supportive therapies to alleviate respiratory discomfort. Lack of treatment may produce complications of acute respiratory distress syndrome and fibrosis. CONCLUSIONS: Lomustine is an essential treatment drug for recurrent CNS tumors. Toxicities such as pneumonitis have been rarely demonstrated. Timely recognition of pneumonitis features is key to treat this complication, improve quality of life, and prevent permanent lung compromise. Reference #1: Dent RG. Fatal pulmonary toxic effects of lomustine. British medical journal. 1982;DOI:10.1136/thx.37.8.627 Reference #2: Skeoch S, Weatherley N, Swift AJ, Oldroyd A, Johns C, Hayton, C, et al. Drug-Induced Interstitial Lung Disease: A Systemic Review. Journal of Clinical Medicine. 2018;doi 10.3390/jcm7100356 Reference #3: Weiss RB, Issell BF. The nitrosureas: carmustine and lomustine. Cancer treatment reviews. 1982;https://doi.org/10.1016/S0305-7372(82)80043-1 DISCLOSURES: No relevant relationships by Sukhdeep Kaur No relevant relationships by Chelsea Kennedy-Snodgrass No relevant relationships by Sarun Thomas