A Case of Eosinophilic Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis Combined with Pulmonary Tuberculosis: A Case Report

Abstract

Background Eosinophilic Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis (EGPA) is a rare autoimmune disease that can affect multiple organ systems. The standard treatment mainly relies on glucocorticoids and immunosuppressive agents. In our study, we present an EGPA patient who had pulmonary tuberculous mycobacteria infection, such casesare rarely reported. Case presentations A 71-year-old male patient was diagnosed with EGPA (systemic type) and pulmonary tuberculosis simultaneously. A 5-factor score indicated that the patient required glucocorticoids combined with immunosuppressive agents for induction therapy, however, the use of immunosuppressive agents would significantly inhibit anti-tuberculosis treatment. Nowadays, treating active autoimmune disease in patients with infections remains a clinical challenge. Considering the patient did not show life-threatening or severe organ involvement and reduced the effect of anti-tuberculosis immunity, we used glucocorticoids alone. Finally, the patient had no adverse events, the eosinophil counts were markedly decreased and symptoms of EGPA were relieved. Conclusions The patient of EGPA combined with pulmonary tuberculosis successfully treated with glucocorticoids alone may provide significant support in selecting the appropriate treatments for similar cases in the future.