Candida vertebra osteomyelitis in a girl with factor X deficiency

Area of Science:

• Medical Mycology
• Hematology
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Vertebra osteomyelitis caused by Candida species is exceptionally rare.
• It predominantly affects immunocompromised individuals.
• Bleeding disorders, such as factor X deficiency, present unique challenges in patient management.

Observation:

• A 14-year-old female patient with known factor X deficiency developed vertebra osteomyelitis.
• The patient was undergoing home therapy involving factor concentrate infusions.
• The clinical presentation suggested a fungal etiology, specifically Candida.

Findings:

• The causative microorganism was identified as Candida species.
• The likely source of infection was a contaminated peripheral intravenous cannula used for factor concentrate infusion.
• This represents the first reported case of Candida vertebra osteomyelitis in a patient with a bleeding disorder.

Implications:

• Highlights the risk of opportunistic fungal infections in immunocompromised patients, even with rare conditions like factor X deficiency.
• Underscores the critical importance of aseptic techniques during home infusion therapies, especially in vulnerable populations.
• Suggests the need for heightened vigilance regarding potential infectious complications associated with factor replacement therapy in bleeding disorders.