Fungal Pacemaker Endocarditis Caused by Candida albicans: An Unusual Case
Nidia Oliveira1, Sofia Camões1, Elisa Veigas1
1Internal Medicine, Unidade Local de Saúde de Viseu Dão-Lafões, Viseu, PRT.
Abstract:
Fungal pacemaker endocarditis (FPE) is a rare but potentially fatal infection that can occur in patients with implanted cardiac devices. Diagnosing FPE can be difficult due to its subtle and non-specific symptoms, which often necessitate heightened clinical awareness to identify. Management typically involves removal of the infected device combined with antifungal therapy. We describe a 79-year-old female patient who developed Candida albicans endocarditis involving a pacemaker lead, successfully managed through coordinated surgical extraction of the device and systemic antifungal therapy.
Insights
Fungal pacemaker endocarditis (FPE) is a rare cardiac device infection. Successful management involved surgical removal of the infected pacemaker and antifungal treatment.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Medical Devices
Background:
- Fungal pacemaker endocarditis (FPE) is a rare, life-threatening infection affecting patients with cardiac implantable electronic devices.
- Diagnosis of FPE is challenging due to subtle, non-specific symptoms requiring high clinical suspicion.
- Standard management combines infected device removal with antifungal medication.
Related Concept Videos
Endocarditis I: Introduction
Endocarditis II: Clinical Features of Infective Endocarditis
Endocarditis III: Medical Management
Endocarditis IV: Nursing Management
Fungal Group Zygomycota
Fungal Phylum Microsporidia


