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Intestinal mucormycosis in a hemodialysis patient treated with desferrioxamine
1Department of Pathology, Shinshu University School of Medicine, Matsumoto, Japan.
Abstract:
A case of fatal intestinal mucormycosis in a 57-year-old female hemodialysis patient who had received desferrioxamine (DFO) for aluminum overload is reported. The focus of fungal infection was not found until the intestine had been resected surgically. DFO is being used with increased frequency in dialysis patients to treat aluminum or iron overload. Recently a possible link between DFO therapy and mucormycosis has been suggested. In the management of hemodialysis patients, the potential risk of mucormycosis with DFO therapy should be considered.
Insights
A fatal case of intestinal mucormycosis occurred in a hemodialysis patient treated with desferrioxamine (DFO). This highlights the potential risk of mucormycosis associated with DFO therapy in dialysis patients.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Nephrology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Hemodialysis patients often require treatment for metal overload, such as aluminum or iron.
- Desferrioxamine (DFO) is frequently used in dialysis patients for managing aluminum and iron overload.
Observation:
- A case of fatal intestinal mucormycosis is reported in a 57-year-old female hemodialysis patient.
- The patient had received desferrioxamine (DFO) for aluminum overload.
- The intestinal site of fungal infection was identified only after surgical resection.
Findings:
- A potential link between desferrioxamine (DFO) therapy and the development of mucormycosis has been suggested.
- Mucormycosis is a serious fungal infection that can be fatal.
Implications:
- The management of hemodialysis patients necessitates consideration of the potential risk of mucormycosis when using desferrioxamine (DFO).
- Increased vigilance for mucormycosis is warranted in hemodialysis patients undergoing DFO treatment.