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Fatal fungemia resulting from an infected transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt stent
T D Schiano1, E Atillasoy, M I Fiel
1Department of Medicine, Mount Sinai Medical Center, New York, New York 10029, USA.
Abstract:
Placement of a transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt is a well accepted treatment in the management of gastroesophageal variceal bleeding. Although morbidity and mortality associated with the use of transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunts have dramatically decreased, complications still occur. We report a case of fatal fungemia resulting from an infected transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt stent.
Insights
Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunts effectively manage variceal bleeding but can lead to rare, fatal complications. This case highlights a fatal fungemia from an infected shunt stent, emphasizing the need for vigilance.
Area of Science:
- Interventional Gastroenterology
- Medical Device Complications
- Infectious Disease
Background:
- Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) is a standard procedure for managing gastroesophageal variceal bleeding.
- While TIPS procedures have improved safety, complications remain a concern.
Observation:
- A patient developed fungemia (fungal infection in the bloodstream).
- The fungemia was linked to an infected transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt stent.
Findings:
- The case details a fatal outcome due to fungemia originating from a TIPS stent.
- This underscores a rare but severe complication associated with TIPS placement.
Implications:
- Highlights the potential for serious infections related to implanted medical devices like TIPS.
- Suggests the need for continued monitoring and potential preventative strategies for TIPS-related infections.