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Fungal Pancolitis in an Immunocompetent Patient: A Case Report
Coana Sukmagautama1, Kenneth Tan2, Christopher William Purnomo3
1Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Sebelas Maret, Surakarta, Indonesia.
Abstract:
Normal gastrointestinal flora plays a crucial role in protecting against opportunistic pathogens, including bacteria and fungi. Fungal infection, in particular, may occur in patients whose commensal homeostasis is disrupted. Fungal colitis is a rare manifestation of fungal infection of the gastrointestinal tract, particularly in immunocompetent patients. This presents with a mortality rate of 50%, with Candida sp. being the most common causative agent. Evidence in this condition is lacking, and case reports can add to the collective information for generalizable information on this condition. This paper presents a rare case of a 63-year-old immunocompetent woman with fungal pancolitis, its presentation, examination, diagnosis, treatment, and response. Also discussed are the difficulties in diagnosing this rare condition, namely, its similar presentation to functional disorders.
Insights
Fungal pancolitis is a rare gastrointestinal infection, even in immunocompetent individuals. This case report details a unique presentation, diagnosis, and treatment of this serious condition.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Normal gastrointestinal flora prevents opportunistic infections.
- Disruption of gut microbiota can lead to fungal infections like fungal colitis.
- Fungal colitis, often caused by Candida species, has a high mortality rate (50%) and lacks extensive research.
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