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Published on: October 12, 2017
Ureteropelvic fungal bezoar causing oliguric renal failure in a premature infant
1Department of Pediatrics, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan, R.O.C.
Abstract:
Systemic candidiasis with renal involvement is a relatively rare infectious process in young infants. The mortality rate in the cases reported to date has been lower after aggressive surgical and medical management. This report concerns a three-month-old, prematurely born infant with a fatal systemic candidiasis and acute renal failure. Renal pelvic fungal balls caused ureteropelvic junction obstruction in this patient. Renal ultrasonography demonstrated bilateral obstructive uropathy. Treatment consisted of surgical removal of the bezoar, together with open placement of nephrostomy tubes, parenteral amphotericin B therapy and peritoneal dialysis. This case emphasizes the need for a highly suspicion of renal obstruction by fungal balls in any high risk infant with systemic candidiasis and renal dysfunction.
Insights
Systemic candidiasis can cause rare kidney problems in infants. Early detection of fungal balls obstructing the urinary tract is crucial for timely intervention and improved outcomes in high-risk infants.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Infectious Diseases
- Neonatal Nephrology
Background:
- Systemic candidiasis is uncommon in neonates, particularly with significant renal involvement.
- Aggressive management has historically improved survival rates in reported cases.
Observation:
- A three-month-old premature infant presented with fatal systemic candidiasis and acute renal failure.
- Renal pelvic fungal balls were identified as the cause of ureteropelvic junction obstruction.
- Renal ultrasonography revealed bilateral obstructive uropathy.
Findings:
- The infant's condition involved obstruction of the urinary tract by fungal bezoars.
- Treatment included surgical removal of fungal balls, nephrostomy tube placement, amphotericin B, and peritoneal dialysis.
Implications:
- This case highlights the critical need for high suspicion of fungal ball obstruction in infants with systemic candidiasis and renal dysfunction.
- Prompt diagnosis and intervention are vital for managing this rare but severe complication in high-risk neonates.
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