Ultrastructural Examination of an Opportunistic Organism in Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome

Abstract

Abstract Since the emergence of HIV and its counterpart,acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), rare opportunistic organisms have become increasingly prevalent. This increased prevalence has provided an opportunity for ultrastructural evaluation of these infectious organisms. Herein is presented a case of intestinal Mycobacterium avium-intracellulare (MAI) in a middle-aged male with uncertain HIV status at diagnosis. A 56 year-old black male presented to University of South Alabama Medical Center complaining of shortness of breath, anorexia, nausea and vomiting, six month weight loss, and bloody diarrhea. His evaluation was negative for stool ova and parasites and fecal white blood cells. Stool culture and hepatitis viral panel was negative. Iron deficiency anemia and multiple calcified granulomas in both lungs were identified. On his third hospital day, he developed an acute abdomen. At exploratory celiotomy, segmental resection of jejunum and a liver biopsy were performed. Post-operatively the patient's cardiopulmonary status steadily declined and he died three days later.