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Fungal Peritonitis Secondary to Aspergillosis in a Peritoneal Dialysis Patient
1Medstar Health Internal Medicine Residency Program, Baltimore, United States.
Abstract:
Fungal peritonitis remains a serious complication of peritoneal dialysis that carries a high morbidity and mortality. Most cases of fungal infections are due to Candida species; however few cases are seen in the setting of non-Candida such Aspergillus, Fusarium, and Mucor. Prompt peritoneal dialysis catheter removal and early anti-fungal treatment have been considered as best strategies to improve survival. We present a rare case of a 27-year-old male with focal segmental glomerulosclerosis on peritoneal dialysis (PD) presented to the hospital recurrent episodes of abdominal pain, diarrhea, and cloudy output from his peritoneal catheter. He was found to have fungal peritonitis secondary to Aspergillosis Fumigatus. This report highlights that fungal peritonitis should be considered in the differential diagnosis of patients with prolonged antibiotic use, recent bacterial peritonitis, and recent hospitalization. The speciation of Aspergillosis Fumigatus carries a rare incidence in this population and voriconazole is the mainstay treatment.
Insights
Fungal peritonitis is a serious complication of peritoneal dialysis. This case highlights a rare instance of Aspergillosis Fumigatus, emphasizing early diagnosis and treatment for improved patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Fungal peritonitis is a severe complication of peritoneal dialysis (PD), often linked to Candida species.
- Non-Candida fungal infections, such as Aspergillus, Fusarium, and Mucor, are less common but pose significant risks.
Observation:
- A 27-year-old male with focal segmental glomerulosclerosis on PD presented with abdominal pain, diarrhea, and cloudy PD output.
- The patient was diagnosed with fungal peritonitis caused by Aspergillus Fumigatus.
Findings:
- Aspergillus Fumigatus peritonitis is a rare complication in peritoneal dialysis patients.
- Prompt PD catheter removal and early antifungal therapy, particularly with voriconazole, are crucial for managing this infection.
Implications:
- Fungal peritonitis, especially non-Candida types, should be considered in PD patients with risk factors like prolonged antibiotic use or recent bacterial peritonitis.
- Early diagnosis and targeted antifungal treatment are essential for improving survival rates in fungal peritonitis.
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