First Case of Intravenous Drug Use-Related Candidemia in Türkiye

Abstract

Although Candida species are normal flora elements of the body, they can cause various diseases from mucocutaneous infections to candidemia. The presence of a central venous catheter, use of broad-spectrum antibiotics, parenteral nutrition, dialysis, neutropenia, malignancy, and immunosuppressive treatments are the most reported risk factors for candidemia. Complications that develop during follow-up increase both morbidity and mortality. The incidence of fungal infections has been increasing in recent years. This increase is also seen in intravenous drug users. In these patients, candidemia can cause serious life-threatening complications including septicemia and end-organ failure. To date, no cases of intravenous drug use-related candidemia have been reported in our country. This patient represents the first documented case. In this case, we aim to draw attention to the relationship between intravenous drug use and candidemia.

Keywords

• candidemia
• intravenous drug use
• hemoculture