Detection of chronic systemic candida infection in leukaemia patients with febrile neutropenia: value of computer-assisted serial ultrasound documentation

Computer tomography (CT) is known to be as sensitive as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in detecting fungal microabscesses in chronic disseminated candidiasis. However, all imaging techniques have to be repeated in cases of suspected fungal infection. Therefore, use of the CT or MRI scan is limited. Only ultrasound (US) examinations can be repeated as often as needed. The disadvantage of US is a lack of sufficient documentation. We analyzed the value of computer-assisted documentation in serial ultrasonography of leukemia patients with suspected chronic disseminated candidiasis. From November 1996 until October 1997, a total of 220 ultrasound examinations (Kranzbuhler Logiq 500, 3.5 MHz convex array) were performed in 58 patients undergoing intensive chemotherapy. Initial US pictures were stored on a personal computer and compared with the live US at the time of reevaluation in cases of persistent fever. Ultrasound detected microabscesses in liver and/or spleen in eight of the 58 patients. Diagnosis was confirmed by autopsy/biopsy (n=6), blood culture (n=1), and a significant Candida antibody titer (n=1). Focal lesions occurred only after neutrophil recovery. However, a newly evolving nonhomogeneous, micronodular pattern of liver and spleen occurred during febrile neutropenia in three patients, and two of these developed focal lesions subsequently. Follow-up was easy, since US pictures could be compared directly with stored examinations on screen. We conclude that serial US is sensitive in detecting microabscesses in the liver or the spleen. Computer-assisted US documentation proved to be a helpful tool for detection as well as in the follow-up of patients with chronic disseminated candidiasis.