Jurnal Respirasi (JR)
Vol. 12 No. 2 (2026): May 2026

Chronic Cavitary Pulmonary Aspergillosis with Divergent Clinical Courses: A Case Series of Two Patients Presenting with Recurrent Hemoptysis

Suci Guntari (Kusmahati Dua Primary Clinic, Sukoharjo, Indonesia.)
Darmawan Ismail (Department of Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery, Dr. Moewardi General Hospital, Surakarta, Indonesia.)
Oke Dimas Asmara (Division of Respirology and Critical Illness, Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia.)
Grace Thandekire Sibande (Applied Infectious Disease Epidemiology, University College London, London, United Kingdom.)



Article Info

Publish Date
31 May 2026

Abstract

Introduction: Chronic pulmonary aspergillosis (CPA) is a progressive, potentially life-threatening fungal infection of the lungs. Its management is complicated by comorbidities, chronicity, and diagnostic uncertainty. While antifungal therapy remains the cornerstone of treatment, surgical intervention is indicated in selected cases, especially those presenting with hemoptysis or suspicion of malignancy. Multidisciplinary evaluation and perioperative optimization are crucial, particularly in elderly or complex patients. Case: We described two patients with CPA who exhibited divergent clinical courses. Both were refractory to medical therapy and ultimately underwent surgical intervention. Thoracotomy revealed extensive necrotic cavities with high fungal burden, and histopathology confirmed chronic cavitary pulmonary aspergillosis. Debridement and postoperative antifungal therapy led to significant clinical improvement in both cases. These experiences highlight critical decision points in CPA management, including patient selection for surgery, intraoperative flexibility, and postoperative monitoring. Conclusion: Surgery remains an essential component of comprehensive CPA management, particularly when medical therapy fails or diagnostic uncertainty persists. Integrating surgical and pharmacological strategies through multidisciplinary collaboration ensures optimal outcomes, even in elderly or immunocompetent patients. Carefully timed and individualized surgical intervention provides both diagnostic confirmation and symptomatic relief in cases of advanced or refractory CPA.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

JR

Publisher

Subject

Health Professions Medicine & Pharmacology Public Health

Description

Jurnal Respirasi is a National journal in accreditation process managed by Department of Pulmonology & Respiratory Medicine Faculty of Medicine Airlangga University - Dr. Soetomo General Hospital, Surabaya. Publish every January, May, September every year with each of 5 (five) complete texts in ...