Esophageal candidiasis - Case study

Health care

Infectious esophagitis most commonly manifests as esophageal candidiasis (EC). The esophagus is second only to the oropharynx in the gastrointestinal tract in terms of susceptibility to candida infection. Patients who have impaired immune systems, such as those with leukemia, diabetes, HIV/AIDS, corticosteroids, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy, are particularly vulnerable. Individuals with esophageal motility disorders (scleroderma and cardiac achalasia) and those who have taken antibiotics frequently make up another category. Patients reported experiencing soreness behind the sternum, trouble swallowing, and pain when swallowing. Physical examination reveals the presence of a plaque, which frequently coexists with oral thrush. By directly witnessing the white mucosal plaque-like lesions and exudates adherent to the mucosa, endoscopic examination is the most effective method to identify this disease. It was diagnosed by the lab details (hemoglobin 9.7 g/dl, RBC 3.7 10^6/ul, and US esophageal scan), which show small white spots in the esophageal mucosa. By the above scan, the disease is diagnosed in patient1.

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