Ropar: “Spinal Aspergillus infection is an extremely rare condition, particularly in individuals with normal immune systems. Since its symptoms closely resemble those of spinal tuberculosis or tumors, diagnosis is often delayed or the condition goes undetected altogether.”
Addressing a press conference in Ropar on Friday, Dr. Vineet Saggar, Director of the Neuro and Spine Surgery Department at Livasa Hospital, Mohali, stated that he had recently successfully diagnosed and treated an extremely rare case of spinal Aspergillus infection. The patient was a 55-year-old woman who had been forced to endure severe pain for months due to a misdiagnosis.
He emphasized that this case highlights the importance of maintaining a high level of vigilance, utilizing advanced imaging techniques, performing timely surgical interventions, and ensuring accurate laboratory diagnosis to guarantee appropriate treatment. Dr. Saggar noted that timely detection not only provides relief from pain but also prevents irreversible neurological damage.
Providing details of the case, Dr. Saggar explained that the patient had been suffering from unbearable back pain for nearly three months, leaving her bedridden and unable to perform even basic daily activities.
During this period, she consulted several doctors and underwent numerous tests. Due to the similarity of symptoms, she was initially diagnosed with spinal tuberculosis and started on anti-TB treatment. However, there was no improvement in her condition despite prolonged treatment. Subsequently, a Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology (FNAC) was performed due to the suspicion of a spinal tumor, but the results were inconclusive. Given the spread of the infection and the patient's deteriorating condition, the Livasa team recommended immediate surgery. The surgery was performed successfully, providing the patient with significant pain relief within just a few days.
A precise and definitive diagnosis was established through the histopathological examination of tissue samples removed during surgery. This analysis confirmed the presence of *Aspergillus*, a rare fungus affecting the spine. Subsequently, the patient was started on targeted antifungal therapy with voriconazole, leading to a remarkable improvement in her health.
Dr. Saggar, one of the region's leading neuro and spine surgeons, said, "After being completely bedridden, she is now mobile again and able to walk without any pain."
Anurag Yadav, CEO of Livasa Hospitals, stated, "Such complex cases demonstrate the strength of our multidisciplinary team, our advanced diagnostic capabilities, and our commitment to evidence-based care."