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Candida meningoencephalitis treated with 5-fluorocytosine
Abstract:
The successful treatment of Candida albicans meningoencephalitis with 5-fluorocytosine (5-FC) is reported. After abdominal surgery with many complications, a 60-year-old man developed severe headache, lumbar pain, mental change. The significance of this was not realized for months. The cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) showed pleocytosis, high protein and low glucose concentration. One CSF culture out of 6 revealed growth of Candida albicans. Serologic tests are also indicated candida infection. After a month of treatment with 5-FC, the severe pain decreased and he improved mentally. After 4 months, the CSF was normal and the 5-FC treatment ended. For the past year, the patient has not shown any signs of relapse.
Insights
This case report details the successful treatment of a 60-year-old man with Candida albicans meningoencephalitis using 5-fluorocytosine (5-FC). The antifungal therapy led to significant clinical improvement and normalization of cerebrospinal fluid markers.
Area of Science:
- Medical Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
- Neurology
Background:
- Candida albicans meningoencephalitis is a rare but serious fungal infection of the brain and meninges.
- Diagnosis can be challenging, often delayed due to non-specific symptoms and complications from prior surgery.
- Cerebrospinal fluid analysis typically reveals pleocytosis, elevated protein, and low glucose levels.