A Case of Isolated Laryngeal Candidiasis Mimicking Laryngeal Carcinoma in an Immunocompetent Individual

Respiratory fungal infections are usually found in immunocompromised individuals who have received either long-term steroid therapy or broad-spectrum anti-microbial therapy or have a non-resolving underlying chronic disease. These infections are seen as a part of bronchopulmonary fungal infections, and their isolated and primary occurrence as laryngeal diseases is highly uncommon. Laryngeal fungal infections can also mimic various diseases, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease, granulomatous diseases, leukoplakia, and carcinoma, thereby misleading the treating team from correct diagnosis and management. It is therefore important to identify the lesion at the earliest point possible to avoid morbid or life-threatening consequences. We report a case of isolated laryngeal candidiasis in an immunocompetent Indian male with an unusual presentation mimicking laryngeal carcinoma. The clinical and histological features are highlighted with a review of relevant literature to demonstrate the possibility of such an isolated fungal lesion, even in an immunocompetent individual.

Keywords
candidiasis, clinical microbiology, diagnosis, immunocompetent, laryngeal diseases, mycoses