Lung abscess due to Klebsiella pneumoniae and Candida glabrata co-infection in a post-tuberculosis patient: a case report

Background: Post-tuberculosis lung disease (PTLD) is defined as chronic lung abnormalities resulting from a previous history of pulmonary tuberculosis. The sequelae of PTLD can manifest as impaired lung function and structural damage, including the formation of cavities. This case report aims to present a co-infection of Klebsiella pneumoniae and Candida glabrata in a post-tuberculosis patient that caused a lung abscess. Case Presentation: A 53-year-old male presented with complaints of fever lasting for the past 10 days. Night sweats accompanied the fever. The patient also reported a productive cough with yellow, foul-smelling sputum without the presence of blood. Additional symptoms included left-sided chest pain and weight loss. The patient had a history of pulmonary tuberculosis 20 years ago, which was successfully treated with a 6-month course of medication. A chest X-ray examination revealed a thick-walled cavity in the lower field of the left lung. Sputum culture results isolated two dominant microorganisms, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Candida glabrata. The patient underwent a contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) scan of the chest, which revealed a lung abscess in the left lower lobe measuring approximately 10 x 4.4 x 6.6 cm. The patient received medical therapy and pulmonary rehabilitation, which showed significant improvement. Conclusion: A case has been reported of a 53-year-old male suffering from a left lung abscess due to co-infection with bacteria and fungi in a post-tuberculosis patient. The patient received medical therapy and pulmonary rehabilitation, which demonstrated clinical improvement after hospitalization, and monthly evaluations are planned at the outpatient clinic.