The diagnosis of hepatosplenic candidiasis by DNA analysis of tissue biopsy and serum.
Hepatosplenic candidiasis is traditionally diagnosed by blood culture, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and histological analysis. The limitations of these methods include: low sensitivity (blood culture) and failure to isolate the organism (MRI/histology). This report describes a case of hepatosplenic candidiasis diagnosed by simultaneous polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis of liver biopsy and serum. PCR of biopsy and/or serum may offer a sensitive and specific diagnostic test for hepatosplenic candidiasis. Candida species can be identified, which helps guide antifungal chemotherapy, an important aspect in this difficult to treat infection.
Kirby
A
A
Department of Medical Microbiology, Clinical Sciences Building, Manchester Royal Infirmary, UK. kirbyandrew@doctors.org.uk
Chapman
C
C
Hassan
C
C
Burnie
J
J
D000328:Adult; D001706:Biopsy; D002175:Candida / Q000145:classification / Q000302:isolation & purification; D002177:Candidiasis / Q000175:diagnosis*; D004271:DNA, Fungal / Q000032:analysis* / Q000097:blood; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008107:Liver Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000382:microbiology; D016133:Polymerase Chain Reaction / Q000379:methods; D013158:Splenic Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000382:microbiology
D004271:DNA, Fungal