Our Summary

This research paper discusses a case where a man with chronic liver disease, who was waiting for a liver transplant, was tested for COVID-19 and initially tested negative. He had a lung biopsy done to diagnose a suspected fungal infection. Despite the negative COVID-19 test, the biopsy showed signs of viral pneumonia, which is one of the main symptoms of COVID-19. A week later, he tested positive for COVID-19. However, he quickly became symptom-free and his lung issues cleared up within another week without any treatment, even though he had a serious pre-existing health condition.

FAQs

  1. Can a lung biopsy detect COVID-19 even if the standard test is negative?
  2. Is it possible for a patient with a serious pre-existing health condition to recover from COVID-19 without treatment?
  3. Can viral pneumonia be a sign of COVID-19 infection?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might give to a patient about a lung biopsy is to closely follow post-procedure instructions provided by the medical team. This may include avoiding strenuous activity, taking prescribed medications as directed, and monitoring for any signs of infection or complications such as fever, increased pain, or difficulty breathing. It is important to communicate any concerns or symptoms to your healthcare provider promptly.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for a lung biopsy include those with:

  1. Suspicion of lung cancer: Lung biopsies are often recommended for patients with suspicious lung nodules or masses that may be indicative of lung cancer.

  2. Interstitial lung disease: Patients with interstitial lung disease, a group of disorders that cause scarring of the lungs, may undergo a lung biopsy to determine the underlying cause of their condition.

  3. Infections: Patients with suspected fungal, bacterial, or viral infections in the lungs may undergo a lung biopsy to identify the specific pathogen causing their symptoms.

  4. Autoimmune diseases: Patients with autoimmune diseases such as sarcoidosis or granulomatosis with polyangiitis may undergo a lung biopsy to confirm the diagnosis and guide treatment.

  5. Transplant recipients: Patients who have undergone lung transplants or other organ transplants may undergo a lung biopsy to monitor for signs of rejection or infection.

  6. Unexplained lung symptoms: Patients with unexplained symptoms such as persistent cough, shortness of breath, or chest pain may undergo a lung biopsy to determine the underlying cause of their symptoms.

Overall, lung biopsies are recommended for patients with a variety of lung conditions in order to provide an accurate diagnosis and guide appropriate treatment.

Timeline

Before the lung biopsy:

  • The patient, a man with chronic liver disease awaiting a liver transplant, is tested for COVID-19 and initially tests negative.
  • He is experiencing symptoms of a suspected fungal infection in his lungs.
  • A lung biopsy is recommended to diagnose the underlying issue.

After the lung biopsy:

  • The biopsy reveals signs of viral pneumonia, a symptom of COVID-19.
  • A week later, the patient tests positive for COVID-19.
  • Despite the positive test result, the patient remains asymptomatic and his lung issues clear up within another week without any treatment.
  • The patient’s pre-existing health condition does not worsen as a result of the COVID-19 infection.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is the purpose of the lung biopsy and what information will it provide about my condition?
  2. What are the risks and potential complications associated with a lung biopsy?
  3. How should I prepare for the procedure, including any necessary fasting or medication adjustments?
  4. Will I need to stay in the hospital after the biopsy, and if so, for how long?
  5. How long will it take to receive the results of the biopsy?
  6. What follow-up care or treatment may be necessary depending on the results of the biopsy?
  7. How will the biopsy results impact my current treatment plan for my chronic liver disease and potential liver transplant?
  8. Are there any alternative diagnostic tests or procedures that could provide similar information without the need for a lung biopsy?
  9. How will the biopsy results be communicated to other healthcare providers involved in my care?
  10. Are there any additional precautions or considerations to be aware of given the current COVID-19 pandemic and my existing health conditions?

Reference

Authors: Mamoon N, Ahmad IN, Rana AI, Zia HH. Journal: J Coll Physicians Surg Pak. 2021 Jul;31(7):S117-S119. doi: 10.29271/jcpsp.2021.Supp2.S117. PMID: 34271808