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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
Revista Espanola De Anestesiologia Y Reanimacion
|November 11, 2003
Summary
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.
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