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Published on: March 1, 2024
Isolated Candida albicans Arthritis In a Non-Intravenous Drug-Abusing Patient With Acquired Immune Deficiency
D P Ascherman1, T R Cupps, P N Kumar
1Division of Rheumatology, Immunology, and Allergy (D.P.A., T.R.C.) and Division of Intertious Diseases (P.N.K.), Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC.
Summary
This case study details an unusual isolated Candida albicans arthritis in an HIV-positive patient without typical risk factors. It highlights magnetic resonance imaging
Area of Science:
- Medical Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
- Rheumatology
Background:
- Septic arthritis caused by Candida species typically indicates disseminated candidiasis.
- Risk factors for candidemia include intravenous drug use, indwelling catheters, and immunosuppression.
- Isolated Candida arthritis is exceptionally rare, especially in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) positive individuals without other comorbidities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a rare case of isolated Candida albicans arthritis.
- To discuss the diagnostic challenges and implications of this unusual presentation.
- To emphasize the role of advanced imaging in early diagnosis.
Main Methods:
- Case report detailing clinical presentation, diagnostic workup, and treatment.
- Review of relevant literature on Candida arthritis and candidemia.
- Utilization of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for diagnostic evaluation.
Main Results:
- A diagnosis of isolated Candida albicans arthritis was confirmed in an HIV-positive patient.
- The patient lacked typical risk factors for disseminated fungal infection.
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) facilitated early detection of associated osteomyelitis.
Conclusions:
- Isolated Candida arthritis can occur in immunocompromised patients even without overt risk factors for candidemia.
- This case underscores the importance of considering fungal arthritis in the differential diagnosis of joint infections.
- MRI is a valuable tool for the early identification of osteomyelitis in fungal arthritis.
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