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A Rare Case of Candida glabrata Cervical Spondylodiscitis
Angelina Hong1, Ali Tariq Alvi1, Lily Hyunjung Lim1
1HCA Florida Westside Hospital, Plantation, FL.
Introduction:
Invasive candidiasis can lead to numerous life-threatening sequelae. Candida glabrata is the second-most common causative species of invasive candidiasis. This species possesses a high risk for persistent infection and candidemia. An uncommon complication of invasive candidiasis is spondylodiscitis and can rarely affect the cervical spine.
Case Presentation:
The patient is a female in her late 50s with a complex medical history inclusive of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, chronic pain, multiple abdominal surgeries, prolonged intensive care unit admission, and administration of total parenteral nutrition and broad-spectrum antibiotics who presented with complaints of worsening neck pain. She was last hospitalized 3 months prior and found to have C glabrata fungemia but was nonadherent to antifungal therapy.She was found to have advanced C5-6 spondylodiscitis and an epidural abscess. Her surgical cultures grew C glabrata. Despite surgical intervention and antimicrobial therapy, she clinically deteriorated and acquired septic shock with multiorgan failure.
Conclusion:
This is a rare case of cervical spondylodiscitis caused by a deep-seated C glabrata infection.
Insights
A rare case of invasive candidiasis caused by Candida glabrata led to cervical spondylodiscitis and septic shock. This highlights the severe potential of C. glabrata in deep-seated infections.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Mycology
- Spine Surgery
Background:
- Invasive candidiasis, a serious fungal infection, can lead to severe complications.
- Candida glabrata is a frequent cause of invasive candidiasis, associated with persistent infections and candidemia.
- Cervical spondylodiscitis is an uncommon but severe complication of invasive candidiasis.
Observation:
- A patient with a history of chronic illness and prior C. glabrata fungemia presented with worsening neck pain.
- Advanced C5-6 spondylodiscitis and an epidural abscess were diagnosed.
- Cultures confirmed deep-seated infection by C. glabrata.
Findings:
- Despite surgical intervention and antifungal therapy, the patient experienced clinical deterioration.
- The patient developed septic shock and multiorgan failure.
- This case illustrates a rare instance of C. glabrata causing cervical spondylodiscitis.
Implications:
- This case underscores the critical need for prompt diagnosis and aggressive management of C. glabrata infections.
- It highlights the potential for C. glabrata to cause deep-seated infections with life-threatening consequences.
- Further research into C. glabrata pathogenesis and treatment strategies is warranted.
