Related Experiment Videos
Coccidioidal peritonitis associated with continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis
N M Ampel1, J D White, U R Varanasi
1Veterans Administration Medical Center, Tucson, AZ 85723.
Abstract:
We report the first three cases of peritonitis due to the fungus Coccidioides immitis occurring during continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD). At the time of diagnosis, none of the patients had evidence of active infection outside of the peritoneal cavity. Clues suggesting the diagnosis including a previous history of pulmonary coccidioidomycosis, an excess number of eosinophils in the peritoneal fluid, and failure to respond to therapy directed against bacteria. C immitis in peritoneal fluid was more readily isolated on specific fungal culture media than on routine bacterial culture media. In no instances did potassium hydroxide (KOH) preparations of the fluid reveal fungi. Coccidioidal peritonitis during CAPD appears to be a localized form of extrapulmonary coccidioidomycosis that has a relatively benign course once the peritoneal catheter is removed.
Insights
This study details three cases of fungal peritonitis caused by Coccidioides immitis in patients undergoing continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD). Early diagnosis and catheter removal led to a favorable outcome for this localized extrapulmonary infection.
Area of Science:
- Medical Mycology
- Nephrology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Peritonitis is a serious complication in patients undergoing continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD).
- Fungal peritonitis is less common than bacterial peritonitis but can be challenging to diagnose and treat.
- Coccidioides immitis is a fungus endemic to certain regions, primarily causing pulmonary infections.