To describe the main high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) patterns of infection in immunocompromised patients.

It is frequent to meet immunocompromised patients in daily clinical practice not only because of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), but also for the use of immunosuppressive drugs in malignant and autoimmune diseases, in prevention of rejection after solid organs and hematopoietic transplant. Immunodeficiency can be further a direct consequence of hematological malignancy and caused by congenital immune defects. Pulmonary infections are a common complication in these patients. Early and accurate diagnosis is essential because of associated high morbidity and mortality. Chest radiography usually is the...

Several pathogens cause pulmonary infections in immunocompromised patients determining specific HRCT findings. There are four HRCT patterns useful in differential diagnosis of infections in immunocompromised patients: focal consolidation, nodules/masses, small micronodules and diffuse ground glass attenuation. In addition, each pattern can be considered separately between non-AIDS and AIDS groups because of the peculiar HRCT findings of each infection in AIDS patients. FOCAL CONSOLIDATION Focal consolidation pattern consists in a homogeneous increase of parenchymal attenuation that obscures the margin of vessels and airway walls, air bronchogram...

Radiologists should be aware of HRCT patterns of infection in immunocompromised patients to help clinicians choosing the best management.

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