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Case report: peritonitis by Penicillium spp. in a patient undergoing continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis
S Keceli1, I Yegenaga, N Dagdelen
1Department of Microbiology and Clinical Microbiology, Medical Faculty of Kocaeli University, Kocaeli, Turkey. z.sema@mailcity.com
Abstract:
Even though prominent technical improvements in continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) treatments during the last decade, peritonitis keeps its place as an important cause of morbidity and mortality in these patients. Among them fungal peritonitis is happened to be the most difficult one to deal with and comes out serious clinical presentation. It is presented here a case of CAPD related fungal peritonitis caused by Penicillium spp. This case experienced recently relapsing bacterial episodes of peritonitis and received long term antibiotics intraperitoneally and systemically. Eventually, Penicillium spp. was detected in several cultures of peritoneal effluent and also tip of Tenckhoff catheter, therefore it was considered as a causative agent. Then, the catheter was removed and amphotericin B therapy was performed. But the general condition of the patient did not improve till surgically drainage of peritoneal collection which was determined by MR (Magnetic Resonance) examination of abdomen after antifungal treatment was completed and Penicillium spp. in the drainage samples was not determined anymore.
Insights
Fungal peritonitis, particularly from Penicillium spp., remains a challenge in continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD). Surgical drainage alongside antifungal therapy proved crucial for patient recovery.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Infectious Diseases
- Medical Mycology
Background:
- Continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) is a vital treatment for end-stage renal disease.
- Peritonitis is a significant complication of CAPD, impacting patient morbidity and mortality.
- Fungal peritonitis presents unique challenges in management due to its severity and resistance.
Observation:
- A case of CAPD-related fungal peritonitis caused by Penicillium spp. is presented.
- The patient had a history of recurrent bacterial peritonitis treated with prolonged antibiotic therapy.
- Penicillium spp. was identified in peritoneal effluent and on the Tenckhoff catheter tip.
Findings:
- Initial treatment with catheter removal and amphotericin B did not resolve the patient's condition.
- Magnetic Resonance (MR) imaging revealed a peritoneal collection.
- Surgical drainage of the collection, after completing antifungal treatment, led to clinical improvement and eradication of Penicillium spp.
Implications:
- This case highlights the complex management of fungal peritonitis in CAPD patients.
- Aggressive and multi-modal treatment, including surgical intervention, may be necessary for refractory cases.
- Early and accurate diagnosis of fungal species is critical for effective therapeutic strategies.
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