Chronic mucocutaneous candidiasis: radiologic abnormalities in the esophagus

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Infectious Diseases
• Immunology

Background:

• Chronic mucocutaneous candidiasis involves recurrent Candida infections.
• Esophageal involvement can lead to chronic candidal esophagitis.
• This condition is distinct from acute candidal esophagitis clinically and radiographically.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present clinical and radiographic features of chronic candidal esophagitis.
• To differentiate chronic candidal esophagitis from acute forms.
• To explore the potential role of Candida in esophageal intramural pseudodiverticulosis.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of eight cases (four new, four previously reported).
• Analysis of clinical and radiographic findings.
• Documentation of esophageal structural and motor abnormalities.

Main Results:

• All patients exhibited esophageal narrowing (focal in six, diffuse in two).
• Motor abnormalities were common.
• Typical mucosal changes of acute esophagitis were infrequent.
• Esophageal intramural pseudodiverticulosis was observed in one patient.

Conclusions:

• Chronic candidal esophagitis has distinct clinical and radiographic features, primarily esophageal narrowing and motor dysfunction.
• Candida species may be an etiologic factor in esophageal intramural pseudodiverticulosis.
• Distinguishing chronic from acute candidal esophagitis is crucial for appropriate management.