[Candida albicans meningo-encephalo-myelo-radiculitis at an addict]

Ann Biol Clin (Paris). 2005 Sep-Oct;63(5):547-52.
[Article in French]

Abstract

Beside immunodepression induced by the human immunodeficiency virus, fungal infections of the central nervous system are extremely rare in heroin-addict patients. We report here a case of meningo-encephalitis with myelo-radicular lesions in a 25-year-old intravenous heroin addict but non-HIV patient, who was admitted for an acute confusion associated with gait disorders. The diagnosis of Candida albicans meningo-encephalo-myelo-radiculitis was established by magnetic resonance imagery and mycological and serological examinations of cerebrospinal fluid. The infection was cured with amphotericin B lipid complex and 5-fluorocytosine. Early diagnosis and antifungal therapy for 6 months resulted in a favorable outcome. The detection of circulating Candida mannan in cerebrospinal fluid with a more sensitive technique combined to MRI were particularly decisive to confirm Candida infection diagnosis, allowing an appropriate antifungal therapy.

Publication types

  • English Abstract

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Antifungal Agents / therapeutic use
  • Candidiasis / complications
  • Candidiasis / diagnosis*
  • Heroin Dependence / complications*
  • Heroin Dependence / microbiology
  • Humans
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Male
  • Meningitis, Fungal / complications
  • Meningitis, Fungal / microbiology*
  • Radiculopathy / complications
  • Radiculopathy / microbiology*
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Antifungal Agents