Fungal peritonitis in CAPD patients: a report of five cases

Fungal infections are a common cause of morbidity and mortality among patients on continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD). We present the clinical manifestations, and management of five CAPD patients with fungal peritonitis seen during the last seven years. Microscopy and culture of the peritoneal fluid tested positive for fungus in all patients. Filamentous fungi were identified as the causative fungi among four patients and Candida nonalbicans was the cause in one patient. Catheter was removed and appropriate antifungal therapy was given to all the patients. Four patients recovered and one died due to ventilator associated infection. Previously treated bacterial infections, old age more than 50 years, diabetes and hypertension were recognised as the risk factors leading to fungal infection among CAPD patients.