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.