UNCOMMON PRESENTATION OF GASTRO-INTESTINAL CANDIDASIS

AbstractIntroduction:Gastrointestinal candidiasis, also known as Candida overgrowth in the gut, is a fungal infection caused by anovergrowth of Candida species, most commonly Candida albicans. While Candida normally resides in the gastrointestinaltract as part of the gut microbiota, its overgrowth can lead to various symptoms and complications, particularly in patientswho are immunocompromised.Case report: Aseventy-year-oldmale having type 2 diabetes mellitus for last thirty years was on treatment with oralhypoglycaemic drugs, presented with generalized weakness, easy fatiguability, dysphagia, pain abdomen, diarrhoea for lasttwo months. On evaluation, his diabetes was uncontrolled as evidenced by raised fasting, post-prandial sugar levels andHbA1C levels. His endoscopy and colonoscopy revealed diffuse, severe candidiasis which was confirmed on biopsy. Hisblood sugar levels were controlled with insulin and candidiasis was treated with injectable fluconazole followed by oral, fortotal ten days duration. He became asymptomatic after ten days and blood sugar also came under control. He was found tobetotally asymptomatic on three month follow up.Conclusion:Our case report is uncommon because simultaneous involvement of candidiasis in oesophagus and large colonwas confirmed. A proper and timely diagnosis and treatment can decrease morbidity and mortality.