Polyarteritis nodosa mimicking hepatic candidiasis on postcontrast CT
1Department of Radiology, University of California, San Francisco.
Journal of Computer Assisted Tomography
|March 1, 1994
Abstract:
We report a case in which lesions identical to those typical of hepatic candidal microabscesses were caused by polyarteritis nodosa, the recognition of which was essential to avoid potentially toxic therapy for candidiasis and for prompt initiation of successful therapy for progressing symptomatic arteritis.
Insights
Polyarteritis nodosa can mimic hepatic candidal microabscesses, leading to misdiagnosis. Prompt recognition of polyarteritis nodosa is crucial for appropriate treatment and avoiding unnecessary antifungal therapy.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Rheumatology
- Pathology
Background:
- Hepatic microabscesses are commonly associated with fungal infections, particularly Candida species.
- Accurate diagnosis is critical to guide appropriate antifungal therapy.
Observation:
- A patient presented with imaging findings indistinguishable from hepatic candidal microabscesses.
- Histopathological examination revealed features consistent with polyarteritis nodosa, not candidiasis.
Findings:
- Polyarteritis nodosa can manifest with hepatic lesions that mimic fungal microabscesses.
- This diagnostic challenge highlights the importance of comprehensive histopathological evaluation.
Implications:
- Misdiagnosis can lead to delayed treatment of polyarteritis nodosa and potentially toxic antifungal therapies.
- Distinguishing between infectious and inflammatory causes of hepatic lesions is vital for patient management.
