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Mouse Kidney Transplantation: Models of Allograft Rejection
Published on: October 11, 2014
[Cecal perforation in a kidney transplant patient: disseminated histoplasmosis]
N Kourda1, M Mlika, Y S H Zidi
1Département d'Anatomie Pathologique, Hôpital Charles Nicolle, Tunis, Tunisie.
Abstract:
Disseminated histoplasmosis is a fungal infection caused by Histoplasma capsulatum. It often involves immunodeficient patients and can occur in two forms, i.e., the large- and small-celled variants. The purpose of this report is to describe a case of disseminated histoplasmosis with cutaneous and digestive involvement observed four years after kidney transplantation in a man from Senegal. The patient developed severe sepsis secondary to colonic perforation. Outcome was fatal due to delayed diagnosis and extent of disease.
Insights
Disseminated histoplasmosis, a fungal infection, can affect kidney transplant patients. This case highlights a fatal outcome due to delayed diagnosis of cutaneous and digestive involvement.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
- Transplantation Immunology
Background:
- Disseminated histoplasmosis is a severe fungal infection caused by Histoplasma capsulatum, primarily affecting immunocompromised individuals.
- The infection presents in large- and small-celled variants and can manifest with diverse clinical symptoms.
Observation:
- A case report of a Senegalese man who developed disseminated histoplasmosis with cutaneous and digestive involvement four years post-kidney transplantation.
- The patient presented with severe sepsis resulting from colonic perforation.
Findings:
- The patient's disseminated histoplasmosis involved both skin and gastrointestinal tract.
- Delayed diagnosis and the advanced stage of the infection contributed to a fatal outcome.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering disseminated histoplasmosis in immunocompromised patients, particularly transplant recipients, presenting with unusual symptoms.
- Early diagnosis and prompt treatment are crucial for improving outcomes in disseminated histoplasmosis.
- Highlights the need for heightened awareness of fungal infections in organ transplant recipients, especially in endemic regions.
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