FUNGAL BEZOAR AND BLADDER RUPTURE SECONDARY TO CANDIDA-TROPICALIS

Candidal urinary tract infections typically occur in a host with compr omised immune function. Although usually associated with aerobic bacte rial infections, emphysematous cystitis occasionally complicates funga l infections of the lower urinary tract, especially in diabetics. Anot her uncommon occurrence is formation of a ''fungus ball'' leading to o bstructive uropathy. We present a case of bladder rupture in a patient with emphysematous cystitis and obstructing fungal bezoar caused by C andida tropicalis. Various factors predispose to fungal urinary tract infection, including diabetes mellitus, neurogenic bladder, antibiotic usage, and the presence of an indwelling urinary catheter.