A Rare Case of Candida Tropicalis Infection of a Total Hip Arthroplasty: A Case Report and Review of Literature

Abstract

Fungal prosthetic joint infection is rare with Candida albicans being the most frequently reported pathogen in medical literature. We report here a rare case of Candida tropicalis infection affecting a total hip arthroplasty in a 73y male that failed to heal with initial treatment antibiotics and was eventually successfully treated with serial debridement, removal of prosthesis and antifungal medications. Revision of the total hip arthroplasty was performed four months after the patient was deemed infection free. In most cases, removal of implants, thorough debridement, and effective antifungal therapy are necessary for the eradication of infection. Reimplantation of the prosthesis can then be performed successfully in a staged surgical procedure. Orthopaedic surgeons should consider the possibility of a fungal infection in prosthetic joints especially in immune compromised patients especially if the infection is persistent or does not follow the expected course after treatment.

Keywords

• Candida tropicalis
• Prosthetic joint infection
• Antifungal therapy