Cancer therapy is a dynamically evolving field. Chemotherapy and biologic agents impact the magni... more Cancer therapy is a dynamically evolving field. Chemotherapy and biologic agents impact the magnitude and duration of immunosuppression in the already-immunocompromised cancer hosts who are then susceptible to a broad spectrum of infectious complications ranging from mild opportunistic infections to severe, fatal neutropenic sepsis. Numerous bacterial, fungal, and viral organisms have been implicated dictating varied preventative approaches. Rapid assessment and risk stratification of febrile patients identify individuals requiring hospital admission. Timely delivery of antimicrobials reduces the risk of complications and death. Herein, we summarize the current "state of art" in the management of infection in the cancer patient. We detail the advances in antibacterial and antifungal therapy.
Results. Of 408 patient of community-onset KP BSI, 70 (17%) were ESBL-KP BSI patients. ESBL-KP is... more Results. Of 408 patient of community-onset KP BSI, 70 (17%) were ESBL-KP BSI patients. ESBL-KP isolates most frequently carried CTX-M-1-group ESBLs (74%, n = 52), followed by CTX-M-9-group ESBLs (16%, n = 11). Most prevalent sequence type (ST) among ESBL-KP isolates was ST48 (14%, n = 10). Among non-ESBL-KP isolates, ST23 was most prevalent (21%, n = 70). Analyzing with multivariate analysis, recent admission to long-term care hospital within 3 months (OR, 5.7; 95% CI, 2.1-15.6; P = 0.001), previous usage of trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (OR, 11.5; 95% CI, 2.7-48.6; P = 0.001), expanded-spectrum cephalosporin (OR, 2.2; 95% CI, 1.2-3.9; P = 0.01), and previous use of urinary catheter (OR, 2.3; 95% CI, 1.1-4.5; P = 0.02) were identified as independent risk factors for community-onset ESBL-KP BSI. Recent admission to long-term care hospital, use of urinary catheter, recent usage of antibiotics were identified as risk factors for community-onset ESBL-KP BSI. Strict antibiotic stewardship and infection control measures in long-term care hospital are needed.
Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a pathogen associated with respiratory tract infection and is rel... more Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a pathogen associated with respiratory tract infection and is related to avian pneumovirus. Typically, children, the elderly, and those who are immunocompromised are the most susceptible to HMPV infection; however, the virus can infect persons of all ages. In otherwise healthy individuals, HMPV infection is generally self-limiting, but immunocompromised individuals can develop fatal complications. We present a case series of 3 severely immunocompromised patients who were infected with HMPV and describe their clinical course. All 3 patients had acute myeloid leukemia, histories of neutropenic fever, and prolonged hospitalization stays. This case series highlights the severe sequelae observed in individuals infected with HMPV, particularly among those who are immunocompromised.
Leishmaniasis is a group of vector-borne diseases, caused by a group of protozoa belonging to the... more Leishmaniasis is a group of vector-borne diseases, caused by a group of protozoa belonging to the genus Leishmania. It is usually transmitted by sandfly vectors. There are 2 types of leishmaniasis: visceral and cutaneous. We report a case of cutaneous leishmaniasis in a young male caused by Leishmania panamensis. We also discuss the clinical features, diagnostic tools, differential diagnosis, and management options for cutaneous leishmaniasis.
Journal of The National Comprehensive Cancer Network, Nov 1, 2012
Infectious diseases are important causes of morbidity and mortality in patients with cancer. In c... more Infectious diseases are important causes of morbidity and mortality in patients with cancer. In certain instances, the malignancy itself can predispose patients to severe or recurrent infections. Neutropenia has been recognized for many decades as a major risk factor for the development of infections in patients undergoing chemotherapy. Effective strategies to anticipate, prevent, and manage infectious complications in neutropenic patients with cancer have led NCCN
Mediterranean Journal of Hematology and Infectious Diseases, Dec 19, 2014
There is significant morbidity and mortality from pneumonia in leukemic and bone marrow transplan... more There is significant morbidity and mortality from pneumonia in leukemic and bone marrow transplant patients. We sought to explore the diagnostic yield of bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) in these patients with new pulmonary infiltrates. A retrospective chart review of approximately 200 Non-human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) leukemic and Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) patients who underwent bronchoscopy at a single academic cancer center was performed. Antimicrobial use for less than 24 hours at the time of BAL was associated with a higher yield in this population (56.8% versus 32.8%, p<0.001). This supports performing bronchoscopy with BAL within 24 hours of antimicrobial therapy in leukemic and HSCT patients.
Nocardia includes over 90 species of filamentous gram-positive bacilli that may cause disease in ... more Nocardia includes over 90 species of filamentous gram-positive bacilli that may cause disease in immunocompromised or immunocompetent hosts. Presentations may include pulmonary, 4, cutaneous, or disseminated infections. Tissue diagnosis may be required as it may mimic alternative etiologies. There is a paucity of data regarding rarer species of Nocardia. Intraspecies variability in antimicrobial susceptibility limits many treatment regimens to in-vitro activity data and treatment regimens often must be tailored to individual patients based on microbiologic cultures. We describe the case of a 63-year-old female who presented with disseminated Nocardia niwae, a species that was previously first identified in Florida for which little clinical data is known, along with concurrent lung adenocarcinoma with pulmonary and central nervous system lesions. Typical susceptibility patterns are discussed along with potential side effects of antimicrobial therapy.
Cats and dogs make up an essential part of the household for families in the United States. Close... more Cats and dogs make up an essential part of the household for families in the United States. Close contact with pets can carry a risk of potential infectious disease transmission. This case series outlines causes of zoonotic pneumonia associated with cats and dogs, with a particular focus on the three cases presented of respiratory infection with Bordetella (B.) bronchiseptica and Pasteurella (P.) multocida in patients with an underlying malignancy. B. bronchiseptica is a rare bacterial pathogen in humans that can cause disease in immunocompromised individuals. Interpreting the significance of B. bronchiseptica as a pathogenic agent can be challenging given that this microbe often accompanies other organisms in culture. P. multocida is another important pathogen known to cause severe respiratory infection in immunocompromised populations or those with certain underlying comorbidities. A broadened differential for other bacterial etiologies of zoonotic respiratory infection acquired from dogs or cats includes Francisella tularensis, Yersinia pestis, Coxiella burnetii, and Bartonella henselae. These pathogens should be considered in the correct clinical context. Pets also play a role as reservoirs for the transmission of resistant bacteria such as methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus intermedius group (SIG), and extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL)-producing Enterobacteriaceae. Immunocompromised individuals must be educated on the potential for household transmission of zoonotic disease and how to limit certain types of close contact with pets. This report also highlights the importance of flea and tick control in pets for the prevention of zoonotic disease spread.
Rosacea granulomatosis is a common, chronic skin disorder that primarily affects the central face... more Rosacea granulomatosis is a common, chronic skin disorder that primarily affects the central face, namely the cheek, nose, chin, and central forehead. Although rosacea is mainly a disorder of innate and adaptive immunity, a variety of endogenous and exogenous triggers such as Demodex may stimulate it. Often found as commensal organisms in human skin, Demodex can be parasitic if there is a change in the host's cutaneous environment. This is especially relevant for immunosuppressed patients, who need prompt treatment to prevent further complications. We review the literature regarding rosacea granulomatosis in immunosuppression and present an acute myelogenous leukemia patient with severe neutropenia, which may have promoted the development of rosacea due to Demodex mite proliferation. This local proliferation of the ectoparasite on the face can cause an atypical skin rash that mimics severe infections in the setting of neutropenia.
Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency (AATD) is an autosomal dominant genetic disorder that presents wit... more Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency (AATD) is an autosomal dominant genetic disorder that presents with pulmonary complications and is most commonly manifested by panacinar emphysema and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. A 49-year-old Caucasian female with a history of AATD and chronic tobacco use was referred to both infectious disease and thoracic surgery clinics with worsening cough and chronic intermittent hemoptysis for the evaluation of possible superimposed infection or malignancy. She had previously been treated with multiple antibiotics and Prolastin-CÒ (alpha-1-proteinase inhibitor). Initial CT of the chest showed known chronic bronchiectasis, severe lower lung emphysema, and right-sided lower lobe pulmonary masses. CT-guided biopsy of one mass showed nonspecific inflammation, negative cultures, and negative cytology. Subsequent follow-up with chest CT scans showed a decreasing size of right-sided pulmonary masses and new left-sided nodule formation, which later stabilized...
months following the quality assurance intervention were included. Sputum samples were processed ... more months following the quality assurance intervention were included. Sputum samples were processed at the Texas Department of State and Health Services (DSHS) Laboratory. Results. A total of 1,853 sputum samples were processed; 1,288 from 2014 and 565 following the intervention. NTM decreased from 56 (4.3%) to 7 (1.2%) after the quality assurance intervention was instituted for a NTM decrease of 75.0%. M. gordonae decreased by 78.6%. No patients had evidence of NTM disease. Conclusion. A breach in sputum collection protocols at TCID accounted for the increase in NTM isolation in 2014, half of which were M. gordonae. The reeducation of respiratory therapy staff and initiation of sterile saline rinse prior to sputum collection resulted in a significant reduction in the overall NTM rate. M. gordonae was isolated only three times following the intervention. At TCID, a location where tap water and bottled water contains NTM, drinking these prior to sputum collection possibly contributed to the cluster for NTM, especially M. gordonae. We recommend rinsing the mouth with sterile saline or water prior to sputum collection to decrease isolation of rarely pathogenic NTM. Disclosures. All authors: No reported disclosures. 2276. Evaluation of Ceftaroline-Avibactam Activity in vitro and ex vivo Against Mycobacterium abscessus Complex
Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a devastating and disfiguring disease of the skin involving the ... more Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a devastating and disfiguring disease of the skin involving the terminal follicular epithelium within the apocrine-gland-bearing skin. We present an interesting case of a 58-year-old female who presented with a 10-year history of refractory HS of the gluteal, perineal, perianal, and groin region. She had been chronically treated with multiple antibiotics in the past with no improvement. The patient subsequently underwent surgical local excision with complex closure. Medical management alone may not be optimal, especially in refractory disease. Early and aggressive surgical intervention and interdisciplinary approach are needed for patients with chronic and advanced stage of HS.
Background. Daratumumab is an IgG kappa monoclonal antibody (mAB) against CD38 which is expressed... more Background. Daratumumab is an IgG kappa monoclonal antibody (mAB) against CD38 which is expressed on myeloma cells. It has recently been approved for treatment of patients with relapsed refractory multiple myeloma. Our objective was to identify the potential infectious complications associated with daratumumab use. Methods. We conducted a retrospective analysis of myeloma patients who received daratumumab at our institution from October 2015 to December 2016. Patients were divided into four groups based on administration regimen of daratumumab: (1) single agent with dexamethasone; (2) triple therapy with proteasome inhibitor (PI), immune-modulating drug (IMiD), mitogen-activated protein kinase (MEK) inhibitor or mAB; (3) quadruple therapy with IMiD + PI ± mAB or cyclophosphamide; (4) with high-dose chemotherapy. For each group, we evaluated the incidence of infection, neutropenia (defined as ANC <1,000), hospitalization, and 90-day survival. Results. A total of 171 patients (63% male, 37% female) were included in the study and received a total of 343 cycles of daratumumab. Median age was 68 years. A total of 151 infections occurred in 121 of the 343 cycles (40% bacterial; 52% viral). There was a significant association between development of infection and chemotherapy regimen used (χ 2 = 17, P ≤ 0.001). Patients developed neutropenia in 129 of 254 cycles (51%). There was a significant association between the development of neutropenia and chemotherapy regimen used (χ 2 = 43.51, P < 0.00001). Discontinuation of chemotherapy occurred in 65 cycles (19%), mainly due to progression of disease (54%). Eighty subjects (23%) required hospitalization, infection being the main cause (51%). Ninety-day survival was 91.8%. Conclusion. Infection is common among myeloma patients who receive daratumumab. Myeloma patients who receive daratumumab in conjunction with multidrug chemotherapy regimens have an increased risk of infection and neutropenia. Because daratumumab is given predominantly as outpatient therapy, a greater understanding of the potential immunomodulatory effects of daratumumab will lead to increased vigilance in identifying and treating clinically significant infections.
Coccidioidomycosis is an endemic fungal infection caused by the inhalation of the spores of Cocci... more Coccidioidomycosis is an endemic fungal infection caused by the inhalation of the spores of Coccidioides species. Patients with underlying immunosuppressive illness can contract chronic or disseminated disease which requires prolonged systemic therapy. Pulmonary coccidioidomycosis remains as an illusory and abstruse disease, with increased prevalence that poses as a challenge for clinicians in developing an effective strategy for treatment. Here, we report successful treatment of a refractory case of chronic relapsing pulmonary coccidioidomycosis in a 50-year old woman with a thin-walled cavitary lung lesion who was ultimately treated with posaconazole.
Cancer therapy is a dynamically evolving field. Chemotherapy and biologic agents impact the magni... more Cancer therapy is a dynamically evolving field. Chemotherapy and biologic agents impact the magnitude and duration of immunosuppression in the already-immunocompromised cancer hosts who are then susceptible to a broad spectrum of infectious complications ranging from mild opportunistic infections to severe, fatal neutropenic sepsis. Numerous bacterial, fungal, and viral organisms have been implicated dictating varied preventative approaches. Rapid assessment and risk stratification of febrile patients identify individuals requiring hospital admission. Timely delivery of antimicrobials reduces the risk of complications and death. Herein, we summarize the current "state of art" in the management of infection in the cancer patient. We detail the advances in antibacterial and antifungal therapy.
Results. Of 408 patient of community-onset KP BSI, 70 (17%) were ESBL-KP BSI patients. ESBL-KP is... more Results. Of 408 patient of community-onset KP BSI, 70 (17%) were ESBL-KP BSI patients. ESBL-KP isolates most frequently carried CTX-M-1-group ESBLs (74%, n = 52), followed by CTX-M-9-group ESBLs (16%, n = 11). Most prevalent sequence type (ST) among ESBL-KP isolates was ST48 (14%, n = 10). Among non-ESBL-KP isolates, ST23 was most prevalent (21%, n = 70). Analyzing with multivariate analysis, recent admission to long-term care hospital within 3 months (OR, 5.7; 95% CI, 2.1-15.6; P = 0.001), previous usage of trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (OR, 11.5; 95% CI, 2.7-48.6; P = 0.001), expanded-spectrum cephalosporin (OR, 2.2; 95% CI, 1.2-3.9; P = 0.01), and previous use of urinary catheter (OR, 2.3; 95% CI, 1.1-4.5; P = 0.02) were identified as independent risk factors for community-onset ESBL-KP BSI. Recent admission to long-term care hospital, use of urinary catheter, recent usage of antibiotics were identified as risk factors for community-onset ESBL-KP BSI. Strict antibiotic stewardship and infection control measures in long-term care hospital are needed.
Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a pathogen associated with respiratory tract infection and is rel... more Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a pathogen associated with respiratory tract infection and is related to avian pneumovirus. Typically, children, the elderly, and those who are immunocompromised are the most susceptible to HMPV infection; however, the virus can infect persons of all ages. In otherwise healthy individuals, HMPV infection is generally self-limiting, but immunocompromised individuals can develop fatal complications. We present a case series of 3 severely immunocompromised patients who were infected with HMPV and describe their clinical course. All 3 patients had acute myeloid leukemia, histories of neutropenic fever, and prolonged hospitalization stays. This case series highlights the severe sequelae observed in individuals infected with HMPV, particularly among those who are immunocompromised.
Leishmaniasis is a group of vector-borne diseases, caused by a group of protozoa belonging to the... more Leishmaniasis is a group of vector-borne diseases, caused by a group of protozoa belonging to the genus Leishmania. It is usually transmitted by sandfly vectors. There are 2 types of leishmaniasis: visceral and cutaneous. We report a case of cutaneous leishmaniasis in a young male caused by Leishmania panamensis. We also discuss the clinical features, diagnostic tools, differential diagnosis, and management options for cutaneous leishmaniasis.
Journal of The National Comprehensive Cancer Network, Nov 1, 2012
Infectious diseases are important causes of morbidity and mortality in patients with cancer. In c... more Infectious diseases are important causes of morbidity and mortality in patients with cancer. In certain instances, the malignancy itself can predispose patients to severe or recurrent infections. Neutropenia has been recognized for many decades as a major risk factor for the development of infections in patients undergoing chemotherapy. Effective strategies to anticipate, prevent, and manage infectious complications in neutropenic patients with cancer have led NCCN
Mediterranean Journal of Hematology and Infectious Diseases, Dec 19, 2014
There is significant morbidity and mortality from pneumonia in leukemic and bone marrow transplan... more There is significant morbidity and mortality from pneumonia in leukemic and bone marrow transplant patients. We sought to explore the diagnostic yield of bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) in these patients with new pulmonary infiltrates. A retrospective chart review of approximately 200 Non-human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) leukemic and Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) patients who underwent bronchoscopy at a single academic cancer center was performed. Antimicrobial use for less than 24 hours at the time of BAL was associated with a higher yield in this population (56.8% versus 32.8%, p<0.001). This supports performing bronchoscopy with BAL within 24 hours of antimicrobial therapy in leukemic and HSCT patients.
Nocardia includes over 90 species of filamentous gram-positive bacilli that may cause disease in ... more Nocardia includes over 90 species of filamentous gram-positive bacilli that may cause disease in immunocompromised or immunocompetent hosts. Presentations may include pulmonary, 4, cutaneous, or disseminated infections. Tissue diagnosis may be required as it may mimic alternative etiologies. There is a paucity of data regarding rarer species of Nocardia. Intraspecies variability in antimicrobial susceptibility limits many treatment regimens to in-vitro activity data and treatment regimens often must be tailored to individual patients based on microbiologic cultures. We describe the case of a 63-year-old female who presented with disseminated Nocardia niwae, a species that was previously first identified in Florida for which little clinical data is known, along with concurrent lung adenocarcinoma with pulmonary and central nervous system lesions. Typical susceptibility patterns are discussed along with potential side effects of antimicrobial therapy.
Cats and dogs make up an essential part of the household for families in the United States. Close... more Cats and dogs make up an essential part of the household for families in the United States. Close contact with pets can carry a risk of potential infectious disease transmission. This case series outlines causes of zoonotic pneumonia associated with cats and dogs, with a particular focus on the three cases presented of respiratory infection with Bordetella (B.) bronchiseptica and Pasteurella (P.) multocida in patients with an underlying malignancy. B. bronchiseptica is a rare bacterial pathogen in humans that can cause disease in immunocompromised individuals. Interpreting the significance of B. bronchiseptica as a pathogenic agent can be challenging given that this microbe often accompanies other organisms in culture. P. multocida is another important pathogen known to cause severe respiratory infection in immunocompromised populations or those with certain underlying comorbidities. A broadened differential for other bacterial etiologies of zoonotic respiratory infection acquired from dogs or cats includes Francisella tularensis, Yersinia pestis, Coxiella burnetii, and Bartonella henselae. These pathogens should be considered in the correct clinical context. Pets also play a role as reservoirs for the transmission of resistant bacteria such as methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus intermedius group (SIG), and extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL)-producing Enterobacteriaceae. Immunocompromised individuals must be educated on the potential for household transmission of zoonotic disease and how to limit certain types of close contact with pets. This report also highlights the importance of flea and tick control in pets for the prevention of zoonotic disease spread.
Rosacea granulomatosis is a common, chronic skin disorder that primarily affects the central face... more Rosacea granulomatosis is a common, chronic skin disorder that primarily affects the central face, namely the cheek, nose, chin, and central forehead. Although rosacea is mainly a disorder of innate and adaptive immunity, a variety of endogenous and exogenous triggers such as Demodex may stimulate it. Often found as commensal organisms in human skin, Demodex can be parasitic if there is a change in the host's cutaneous environment. This is especially relevant for immunosuppressed patients, who need prompt treatment to prevent further complications. We review the literature regarding rosacea granulomatosis in immunosuppression and present an acute myelogenous leukemia patient with severe neutropenia, which may have promoted the development of rosacea due to Demodex mite proliferation. This local proliferation of the ectoparasite on the face can cause an atypical skin rash that mimics severe infections in the setting of neutropenia.
Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency (AATD) is an autosomal dominant genetic disorder that presents wit... more Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency (AATD) is an autosomal dominant genetic disorder that presents with pulmonary complications and is most commonly manifested by panacinar emphysema and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. A 49-year-old Caucasian female with a history of AATD and chronic tobacco use was referred to both infectious disease and thoracic surgery clinics with worsening cough and chronic intermittent hemoptysis for the evaluation of possible superimposed infection or malignancy. She had previously been treated with multiple antibiotics and Prolastin-CÒ (alpha-1-proteinase inhibitor). Initial CT of the chest showed known chronic bronchiectasis, severe lower lung emphysema, and right-sided lower lobe pulmonary masses. CT-guided biopsy of one mass showed nonspecific inflammation, negative cultures, and negative cytology. Subsequent follow-up with chest CT scans showed a decreasing size of right-sided pulmonary masses and new left-sided nodule formation, which later stabilized...
months following the quality assurance intervention were included. Sputum samples were processed ... more months following the quality assurance intervention were included. Sputum samples were processed at the Texas Department of State and Health Services (DSHS) Laboratory. Results. A total of 1,853 sputum samples were processed; 1,288 from 2014 and 565 following the intervention. NTM decreased from 56 (4.3%) to 7 (1.2%) after the quality assurance intervention was instituted for a NTM decrease of 75.0%. M. gordonae decreased by 78.6%. No patients had evidence of NTM disease. Conclusion. A breach in sputum collection protocols at TCID accounted for the increase in NTM isolation in 2014, half of which were M. gordonae. The reeducation of respiratory therapy staff and initiation of sterile saline rinse prior to sputum collection resulted in a significant reduction in the overall NTM rate. M. gordonae was isolated only three times following the intervention. At TCID, a location where tap water and bottled water contains NTM, drinking these prior to sputum collection possibly contributed to the cluster for NTM, especially M. gordonae. We recommend rinsing the mouth with sterile saline or water prior to sputum collection to decrease isolation of rarely pathogenic NTM. Disclosures. All authors: No reported disclosures. 2276. Evaluation of Ceftaroline-Avibactam Activity in vitro and ex vivo Against Mycobacterium abscessus Complex
Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a devastating and disfiguring disease of the skin involving the ... more Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a devastating and disfiguring disease of the skin involving the terminal follicular epithelium within the apocrine-gland-bearing skin. We present an interesting case of a 58-year-old female who presented with a 10-year history of refractory HS of the gluteal, perineal, perianal, and groin region. She had been chronically treated with multiple antibiotics in the past with no improvement. The patient subsequently underwent surgical local excision with complex closure. Medical management alone may not be optimal, especially in refractory disease. Early and aggressive surgical intervention and interdisciplinary approach are needed for patients with chronic and advanced stage of HS.
Background. Daratumumab is an IgG kappa monoclonal antibody (mAB) against CD38 which is expressed... more Background. Daratumumab is an IgG kappa monoclonal antibody (mAB) against CD38 which is expressed on myeloma cells. It has recently been approved for treatment of patients with relapsed refractory multiple myeloma. Our objective was to identify the potential infectious complications associated with daratumumab use. Methods. We conducted a retrospective analysis of myeloma patients who received daratumumab at our institution from October 2015 to December 2016. Patients were divided into four groups based on administration regimen of daratumumab: (1) single agent with dexamethasone; (2) triple therapy with proteasome inhibitor (PI), immune-modulating drug (IMiD), mitogen-activated protein kinase (MEK) inhibitor or mAB; (3) quadruple therapy with IMiD + PI ± mAB or cyclophosphamide; (4) with high-dose chemotherapy. For each group, we evaluated the incidence of infection, neutropenia (defined as ANC <1,000), hospitalization, and 90-day survival. Results. A total of 171 patients (63% male, 37% female) were included in the study and received a total of 343 cycles of daratumumab. Median age was 68 years. A total of 151 infections occurred in 121 of the 343 cycles (40% bacterial; 52% viral). There was a significant association between development of infection and chemotherapy regimen used (χ 2 = 17, P ≤ 0.001). Patients developed neutropenia in 129 of 254 cycles (51%). There was a significant association between the development of neutropenia and chemotherapy regimen used (χ 2 = 43.51, P < 0.00001). Discontinuation of chemotherapy occurred in 65 cycles (19%), mainly due to progression of disease (54%). Eighty subjects (23%) required hospitalization, infection being the main cause (51%). Ninety-day survival was 91.8%. Conclusion. Infection is common among myeloma patients who receive daratumumab. Myeloma patients who receive daratumumab in conjunction with multidrug chemotherapy regimens have an increased risk of infection and neutropenia. Because daratumumab is given predominantly as outpatient therapy, a greater understanding of the potential immunomodulatory effects of daratumumab will lead to increased vigilance in identifying and treating clinically significant infections.
Coccidioidomycosis is an endemic fungal infection caused by the inhalation of the spores of Cocci... more Coccidioidomycosis is an endemic fungal infection caused by the inhalation of the spores of Coccidioides species. Patients with underlying immunosuppressive illness can contract chronic or disseminated disease which requires prolonged systemic therapy. Pulmonary coccidioidomycosis remains as an illusory and abstruse disease, with increased prevalence that poses as a challenge for clinicians in developing an effective strategy for treatment. Here, we report successful treatment of a refractory case of chronic relapsing pulmonary coccidioidomycosis in a 50-year old woman with a thin-walled cavitary lung lesion who was ultimately treated with posaconazole.
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Papers by John Greene