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A Soluble Tetrazolium-Based Reduction Assay to Evaluate the Effect of Antibodies on Candida tropicalis Biofilms
Published on: September 16, 2022
[Candida parapsilosis endocarditis after prolonged antibiotic therapy]
A Castillo Caparrós1, A M Montijano Cabrera
1Servicio de Anestesiología y Reanimación, Hospital Clínico-Universitario Virgen de la Victoria de Málaga. acastilloc@medynet.com
Abstract:
Infective endocarditis is still a very serious disease whose prognosis has improved in recent years, even though advanced technologies have brought a greater number of cases attributable to increased growth of fungi in more virulent forms. We describe a case of endocarditis caused by Candida parapsilosis on a previously healthy aortic valve in a man who had received prolonged intravenous antibiotic treatment a few months earlier. The initial presentation included acute arterial ischaemia of the lower limbs. The diagnosis of endocarditis was then confirmed by echocardiography and microbiology. Specific antifungal therapy was started, and embolectomy and valve replacement were performed; however, the infection could not be controlled and the patient died a few days later.
Insights
Infective endocarditis caused by Candida parapsilosis can be fatal, even with prompt treatment. This case highlights the risks of fungal infections following prolonged antibiotic use.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Mycology
Background:
- Infective endocarditis (IE) remains a serious condition with improved prognoses due to advanced technologies.
- However, increased fungal growth and more virulent forms are contributing to a rise in cases.
- Prolonged intravenous antibiotic treatment can be a risk factor for opportunistic infections.
Observation:
- A case of endocarditis caused by Candida parapsilosis is presented.
- The infection occurred on a previously healthy aortic valve in a male patient.
- The patient had a history of prolonged intravenous antibiotic treatment a few months prior.
Findings:
- The initial presentation was acute arterial ischemia of the lower limbs.
- Diagnosis was confirmed via echocardiography and microbiology.
- Despite antifungal therapy, embolectomy, and valve replacement, the infection was uncontrollable.
Implications:
- This case underscores the potential severity of Candida parapsilosis endocarditis.
- It highlights the risk of invasive fungal infections after extensive antibiotic therapy.
- Aggressive management may not always prevent fatal outcomes in severe fungal endocarditis.
Related Concept Videos
Endocarditis I: Introduction
Endocarditis III: Medical Management
Endocarditis IV: Nursing Management
Myocarditis III: Medical Management
Cryptococcal Meningitis
Candidiasis

