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Algal peritonitis complicating continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis
Abstract:
A 41-year-old woman on continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) presented with algal peritonitis. Prototheca wickerhamii was isolated from multiple dialysate effluent cultures. Despite treatment with amphotericin B, catheter removal was required. An attempt to reinsert a Tenckhoff catheter 3 months later was unsuccessful because of dense intraperitoneal adhesions. Prototheca sp are a rare cause of human disease, this being the first reported case of algal peritonitis complicating CAPD.
Insights
A rare case of algal peritonitis caused by Prototheca wickerhamii in a continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) patient required catheter removal and led to complications. This highlights the challenges of Prototheca infections in CAPD patients.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Nephrology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) is a common treatment for end-stage renal disease.
- Peritonitis is a serious complication of CAPD, often caused by bacterial infections.
- Algal peritonitis is an extremely rare form of peritonitis.
Observation:
- A 41-year-old woman undergoing CAPD developed peritonitis.
- Prototheca wickerhamii, a type of alga, was identified in her dialysate.
- Despite antifungal treatment with amphotericin B, the patient's condition necessitated the removal of her Tenckhoff catheter.
Findings:
- This case represents the first documented instance of Prototheca-induced algal peritonitis in a CAPD patient.
- Intraperitoneal adhesions formed after catheter removal, preventing reinsertion.
- Prototheca species are infrequently implicated in human infections.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering rare pathogens like Prototheca in refractory peritonitis cases.
- Management of Prototheca peritonitis in CAPD patients may require a multidisciplinary approach.
- Further research is needed to understand the pathogenesis and optimal treatment strategies for algal peritonitis in CAPD.