Pleural Aspergillous Empyema: A Case Report

Aspergillus is a common mold whose spores are spread through the air and affect the lower respiratory tract, causing various pulmonary infections. The main forms include invasive aspergillosis, chronic aspergillosis, tracheobronchial aspergillosis, and allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis. Purulent pleurisy is often of bacterial origin, complicating pneumonia, while fungal empyema is much rarer. Diagnosis remains difficult and relies on clinical, biological, radiological examinations, and culture of pleural fluid. Treatment combines antifungal agents, notably voriconazole, and chest drainage. We report a case of spontaneous Aspergillus empyema in a diabetic patient successfully treated. Through this observation, we emphasize the importance of considering fungal infections in cases of purulent pleurisy, particularly in immunocompromised individuals.