The diagnosis of hepatosplenic candidiasis by DNA analysis of tissue biopsy and serum
- 1Department of Medical Microbiology, Clinical Sciences Building, Manchester Royal Infirmary
- 2NeuTec Pharma plc, Clinical Sciences Building, Manchester Royal Infirmary
- Correspondence to: Dr A Kirby Department of Medical Microbiology, Manchester Royal Infirmary, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9WL, UK; kirbyandrewdoctors.org.uk
- Accepted 31 January 2004
Abstract
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.
- ITS, internal transcribed spacer
- MIC, minimum inhibitory concentration
- PCR, polymerase chain reaction
- Tm, melting temperature
