Candida albicans pancreatitis in a child with cystic fibrosis post lung transplantation

Pediatr Radiol. 2016 Apr;46(4):575-8. doi: 10.1007/s00247-015-3488-4. Epub 2015 Nov 6.

Abstract

We present a case of Candida albicans infection of a previously intact pancreas in a child with cystic fibrosis status post lung transplantation. Although Candida superinfection in necrotizing pancreatitis is not uncommon, this is a unique case of Candida infection of non-necrotic pancreatic parenchyma. This case presented a diagnostic dilemma for radiologists because it appeared virtually identical to acute interstitial edematous pancreatitis on imaging. Ultimately, endoscopic US-based biopsy was pursued for diagnosis. Although difficult to treat and compounded by the immunocompromised status of the child, the pancreatic infection improved with antifungal therapy.

Keywords: Candida albicans; Child; Cystic fibrosis; Fungus; Infection; Magnetic resonance imaging; Pancreas; Pancreatitis; Positron emission tomography.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Antifungal Agents / therapeutic use
  • Candidiasis / etiology*
  • Candidiasis / pathology*
  • Child
  • Cystic Fibrosis / complications
  • Cystic Fibrosis / surgery*
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Endoscopic Ultrasound-Guided Fine Needle Aspiration / methods
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Lung Transplantation / adverse effects*
  • Pancreatitis / etiology*
  • Pancreatitis / pathology*
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Antifungal Agents