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Fungal infections of spine: Case series during the COVID times

Ishwara Keerthi C1, Sevitha Bhat2, Shalini Shenoy Mulki2

  • 1Department of Orthopaedics, Kasturba Medical College, Mangalore, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India.

Indian Journal of Medical Microbiology
|July 25, 2022
PubMed

Insights

This study highlights rare spinal fungal infections, detailing three cases of spondylodiscitis caused by Aspergillus fumigatus, Candida albicans, and Scedosporium apiospermum. These findings emphasize the need for awareness of fungal pathogens in spinal infections.

Area of Science:

  • Infectious Diseases
  • Mycology
  • Spinal Surgery

Background:

  • Fungal spondylodiscitis is an uncommon spinal infection.
  • Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial for patient outcomes.

Observation:

  • Case 1: A 37-year-old male with recent COVID-19 developed L1-2 spondylodiscitis due to Aspergillus fumigatus.
  • Case 2: A 75-year-old male presented with a low back swelling, yielding Candida albicans.
  • Case 3: A 56-year-old diabetic on hemodialysis had mid-back pain, diagnosed with Scedosporium apiospermum spondylodiscitis.

Findings:

  • Identification of three distinct fungal pathogens (Aspergillus fumigatus, Candida albicans, Scedosporium apiospermum) causing spinal infections.
  • Association of Aspergillus fumigatus with recent COVID-19 infection.
  • Scedosporium apiospermum identified in a patient with diabetes and end-stage renal disease.

Implications:

  • These cases expand the spectrum of fungi implicated in spinal infections.
  • Highlights the importance of considering fungal etiologies in spondylodiscitis, especially in immunocompromised patients or those with specific risk factors.
  • Informs clinical suspicion and diagnostic workup for rare spinal fungal infections.
Keywords:
COVID-19Fungal infectionSpine

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