Cavitary Fungus Disease of the Lungs

Nine cases of pulmonary cavitation due to fungus infection are presented in an attempt at early radiological diagnosis. All cases occurred in patients with leukemia or lymphoma who were being treated with immunosuppressive agents and∕or steroids. Aspergillosis was the most common type of infection, but one case each of cryptococcosis and mucormycosis were also seen. Radiologically, the cavities had irregular walls, most of which were thick. The presence of an intracavitary fungus ball was felt to be diagnostic; this occurred in approximately half of the cases.