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Posthysteroscopy fungal peritonitis in a patient on continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis

P K Li1, C B Leung, A K Leung

  • 1Department of Medicine, Prince of Wales Hospital, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin.

Insights

A rare case of fungal peritonitis occurred after hysteroscopy for heavy menstrual bleeding. Candida albicans spread from the vagina to the abdomen, possibly through a hidden connection, highlighting infection risks.

Area of Science:

  • Gynecology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Surgical Complications

Background:

  • Hysteroscopy is a common gynecological procedure for diagnosing and treating uterine conditions like menorrhagia.
  • Peritonitis, inflammation of the peritoneum, is a serious condition that can arise from various intra-abdominal sources.

Observation:

  • A patient developed fungal peritonitis 11 days post-hysteroscopy for menorrhagia.
  • Candida albicans was identified in both vaginal swabs and peritoneal dialysate effluent.

Findings:

  • The case suggests a potential vaginoperitoneal communication facilitated the spread of Candida albicans.
  • The distension medium used during hysteroscopy may have transported the fungus into the peritoneal cavity.

Implications:

  • This report highlights a novel complication of hysteroscopy: post-procedural fungal peritonitis.
  • Consideration of prophylactic antifungal agents before hysteroscopy in at-risk patients may be warranted.
  • Early recognition and management are crucial for favorable outcomes in fungal peritonitis.

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