Patient's Query
Hello doctor,
I was in the intensive care unit and just recently discovered that I have Candida auris in my ear. The fact that it is a drug-resistant fungus makes me feel quite concerned. I do not currently have a fever, and it is just in my ear canal, but occasionally I become lightheaded. Is it possible for it to enter the bloodstream or spread further? Which antifungals typically cure it, as well?
Please help.
Thank you.
Hi,
Welcome to icliniq.com.
Thank you for your query. I understand your concerns and would be happy to clarify.
Candida auris (C. auris) is a rare but potentially serious fungal infection. It can affect the bloodstream, wounds, and ear and is known for being resistant to many standard antifungal medications, making treatment more challenging than other types of Candida infections, such as oral candidiasis (thrush in the mouth and throat), vaginal candidiasis (vaginal yeast infection), cutaneous candidiasis (skin infection), invasive candidiasis (bloodstream or internal organs such as the heart, brain, or kidneys), esophageal candidiasis is fungal infection of the esophagus), urinary tract candidiasis, and Candida auris infection.
Although uncommon, in severe cases, a fungal ear infection could potentially spread deeper, even reaching areas like the brain. The risk of such complications increases in individuals with weakened immune systems or those who are critically ill and use breathing tubes, feeding tubes, or IV (intravenous) catheters.
Treatment typically begins with an antifungal from the Echinocandin group, such as Caspofungin (Caspofungin acetate), which is commonly used since Candida auris is often multidrug-resistant, but Caspofungin has shown good activity against it. Micafungin(Micafungin sodium), or Anidulafungin. It is one of the first-line antifungal medications used to treat Candida auris infections, administered intravenously. Depending on the case, other medications like Fluconazole (an antifungal medication commonly used to treat various Candida infections) or Amphotericin B (a potent antifungal drug used to treat severe fungal infections that spread throughout the body) may be used. The newer formulations are more tolerable and tend to cause fewer kidney-related side effects than the traditional version.) may also be considered. Kindly consult your doctor and take medicines accordingly.
I hope this helps.
Kindly revert so I can assist you further.
Thank you.
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Answered byDr. Sally Attalah
Medically reviewed byiCliniq medical review team
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