An Unusual cause of Empyema thoracis

Investigations revealed a hemoglobin of 8.9 gm%, total WBC count of 11,800 cells/ cu mm with normal differential count, normal plasma glucose levels and renal functions. Pleural fluid analysis revealed the presence of foul smelling pus which showed septate fungal hyphae on smear and subsequently grew Aspergillus terreus on culture. [3] Among the described cases of pleural aspergillosis, etiologic factors include: pre-existing pulmonary tuberculosis - 87%; bronchopleural fistula - 74%; pleural drainage - 56%; and lung resection - 17%.