Authors: Deirdre O’Brien Niall T Stevens Chor Hiang Lim Donncha F O’Brien Edmond Smyth Fidelma Fitzpatrick Hilary Humphreys
Publish Date: 2011/03/23
Volume: 153, Issue: 6, Pages: 1347-1350
Abstract
Candida infection of the central nervous system CNS following neurosurgery is relatively unusual but is associated with significant morbidity and mortality We present our experience with this infection in adults and discuss clinical characteristics treatment options and outcomeEleven episodes of Candida CSF infection following neurosurgery were identified over a 12year period Candida albicans was the predominant species isolated n = 8 73 All infections were associated with foreign intracranial material nine with external ventricular drains 82 one with a ventriculoperitoneal shunt one with a lumbar drain and one with Gliadel wafers 13bis 2chloroethyl1nitrosurea Fluconazole or liposomal amphotericin B were the most common antifungal agents used The mortality rate identified in our series was 27Candida infection following neurosurgery remains a relatively rare occurrence but one that causes significant mortality These are complex infections the management of which benefits from a close liaison between the clinical microbiologist and neurosurgeon Prompt initiation of antifungal agents and removal of infected devices offers the best hope of a cure
Keywords: