Jurnal Respirologi Indonesia
Vol 46 No 3 (2026)

Successful Lobectomy for Lung Aspergilloma Post–Tuberculosis Infection with Recurrent Hemoptysis

Gregorio Satrio Pinunggul (Department of Pulmonology and Respiratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Brawijaya University, Malang)
Christian Surya Eka Putra (Department of Pulmonology and Respiratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Brawijaya University, Malang)
Rezki Tantular (Department of Pulmonology and Respiratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Brawijaya University, Malang)
Dini Rachma Erawati (Division of Radiology, Dr. Saiful Anwar Hospital, Malang)
Nurima Diyah (Division of Clinical Microbiology, Dr. Saiful Anwar Hospital, Malang)
Koernia Kusuma Wardhana (Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Dr. Saiful Anwar Hospital, Malang)



Article Info

Publish Date
22 Aug 2026

Abstract

Background: Aspergilloma is a colonization of a lung cavity by the fungus Aspergillus, which often occurs as a result of a prior tuberculous lesion. Thus, a multimodal approach is needed to be more effective at reducing recurrence and mortality. Case: A 45-year-old male smoker came with complaints of recurrent hemoptysis for one year, followed by shortness of breath. The patient was diagnosed with tuberculosis twice, both diagnoses confirmed bacteriologically and declared cured. The CT scan of the thorax with contrast concluded that the pulmonary tuberculosis was inactive, displaying a fungus ball at the apex of the left lung accompanied by multiple subpleural blebs. Lobectomy was performed to remove the fungus ball. The results of the biopsy showed pieces of aspergillosis fungal tissue with a fungus ball appearance accompanied by necrosis. Oral voriconazole was given as postoperative treatment for 7 days and continued with itraconazole for 6 months. The patient experienced clinical improvement and was able to return to activities during follow-up. Discussion: Lobectomy is often optimal despite its morbidity risks. The X-ray that reveals a residual space or hydropneumothorax also mandates prolonged water-seal drainage and strict observation according to protocol. Additionally, postoperative triazoles completely eradicated the disease. Conclusion: Surgery is a fairly effective treatment in cases of aspergilloma with recurrent hemoptysis. Surgical intervention allows for the complete removal of the fungal ball, its enclosing cavity, and the adjacent unhealthy lung tissue. Multidisciplinary and comprehensive treatment needs to be carried out to increase life expectancy and reduce the recurring symptoms.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

jri

Publisher

Subject

Health Professions Medicine & Pharmacology

Description

Jurnal Respirologi Indonesia (JRI) is an online and printed scientific publication of the Indonesian Society of Respirology (ISR). The journal is published thrice-monthly within a year (January, April, July and October). The journal is focused to present original article, article review, and case ...