Laryngotracheobronchitis due to Candida albicans in a Patient Admitted to the Intensive Care Unit: A Case Report

Several studies have identified Candida albicans as the predominant fungal pathogen involved in respiratory infections. Candida laryngotracheobronchitis is a rare but serious condition, typically observed in immunocompromised patients with predisposing conditions, and its diagnosis poses a challenge due to its nonspecific presentation. We report the case of a 39-year-old woman who was admitted to the Intensive Care Unit for diabetic ketoacidosis associated with severe pneumonia, requiring mechanical ventilation and broad-spectrum antibiotic therapy. She initially responded favourably to treatment; however, 12 h after extubation, she presented with a dry cough, dysphonia and signs of persistent bronchospasm. The findings from bronchofibroscopy and the culture of tracheal and bronchial secretions and washings were consistent with laryngotracheobronchial candidiasis. She was treated with antifungal, resulting in significant clinical improvement and resolution of the endoscopic lesions. Currently, the patient remains stable and is under outpatient follow-up by Pulmonology, Otolaryngology and Endocrinology.