Candida parapsilosis associated with cervical necrotizing fasciitis and descending mediastinitis

BACKGROUND: This report presents an immunocompetent lady suffering from Candida parapsilosis associated with polybacterial cervical necrotizing fasciitis and descending mediastinitis. A literature review and management of invasive candidiasis is discussed. METHODS: A 57-year-old healthy lady presented with cervical necrotizing fasciitis and descending mediastinitis. She was promptly managed with emergency debridement. Both blood and tissue culture yielded multiple microorganisms including C. parapsilosis. RESULTS: The patient recovered progressively. She was discharged 2 months later. CONCLUSIONS: Fungal infection is emerging in this medical era. Vigilance in patient management and as well as considering atypical microorganisms in aetiology may improve patient outcome.