Efficacy of DAIR in managing Candida parapsilosis-infected total knee arthroplasty with five-year follow-up: A case report and review of literature

RATIONALE: Fungal periprosthetic joint infections (fPJIs) are relatively uncommon, accounting for approximately 1% of all PJIs. Revision surgery is typically recommended for fungal infections; however, the physical and financial impact on patients is significant. In this report, we present a case of fPJI successfully treated with debridement, antibiotics, and implant retention (DAIR) with a favorable outcome over a 5-year period. PATIENT CONCERN: A 56-year-old male patient presented with a non-healing surgical incision 1 week after undergoing primary total knee arthroplasty on the right side. DIAGNOSIS: Microbiological culture of the wound effusion identified Candida parapsilosis. Postoperatively, the patient exhibited a significant decrease in serum albumin levels and poor glycemic control. Both C-reactive protein and erythrocyte sedimentation rate were elevated. INTERVENTIONS: A comprehensive DAIR procedure was performed, along with continuous closed irrigation using fluconazole for 1 week. The patient received intravenous voriconazole for 4 weeks, followed by oral fluconazole for an additional 3 months. OUTCOMES: At 1- and 5-year follow-up appointments, the patient C-reactive protein and erythrocyte sedimentation rate levels were within normal limits, and there was no evidence of swelling, erythema, or tenderness in the right knee joint, indicating no signs of infection. LESSONS: DAIR is an effective treatment for early fPJIs, and continuous closed irrigation may provide specific advantages. The patient nutritional status plays a crucial role in the management of periprosthetic infections.