Fatal esophageal perforation caused by invasive candidiasis.

Gock, Michael; Schäfer, Markus; Perren, Aurel; Demartines, Nicolas; Clavien, Pierre-Alain · Ann Thorac Surg · 2005

case_report · Level V

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Abstract

Instrumental lesions, spontaneous rupture, and trauma cause most esophageal perforations. Transmural fungal infection is extremely rare, although Candida may be detected in as many as 25% of normal esophagus. In this report we present a case of fatal esophageal perforation due to transmural Candida infection in a 76-year-old woman. The patient died from septic shock and multiorgan failure, despite esophageal resection and systemic antifungal therapy. Pathogenetic aspects and treatment strategies are discussed.

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