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An autopsy case of renal candidiasis

Alka Mary Mathai1, Ritesh G Menezes, Ramadas Naik

  • 1Department of Pathology, Kasturba Medical College, Mangalore, India.

Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine
|December 9, 2008
PubMed

Insights

Systemic candidiasis, a frequent opportunistic fungal infection, often affects the kidneys. This case highlights renal candidiasis with fungal balls diagnosed postmortem, potentially contributing to death.

Area of Science:

  • Medicine
  • Mycology
  • Pathology

Background:

  • Systemic candidiasis is a common opportunistic fungal infection.
  • The kidneys are the primary organ affected in 80% of cases.
  • Diagnosis is often delayed, leading to high fatality rates.

Observation:

  • A case of renal candidiasis in an elderly male is presented.
  • The patient was hospitalized for head injury and multiple fractures.
  • Renal candidiasis was diagnosed during autopsy.

Findings:

  • Fungal balls were found obstructing the pelvicalyceal system of the kidneys.
  • The autopsy revealed renal candidiasis as a significant finding.
  • The condition may have been a contributing factor to the patient's death.

Implications:

  • This case underscores the importance of considering renal candidiasis in critically ill patients.
  • Autopsy findings are crucial for diagnosing late-stage or fatal opportunistic infections.
  • Early diagnosis and intervention are vital for improving outcomes in systemic candidiasis.

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