Abdulaziz ABOUHOSA, Layan GHUNAIM, Beril KAPTAN, Rabia Seray BARLAK, Ufuk Utku GÖKTUG, Tolga MÜFTÜOGLU, Zeyneb TATAR
Journal of Surgery and Medicine - 2026;10(8):0-0
Esophageal candidiasis is an opportunistic infection typically observed in immunocompromised individuals, whereas laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy is a widely performed bariatric procedure with relatively low rates of infectious complications. We report the case of a 51-year-old immunocompetent woman who developed esophageal candidiasis one year after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy and presented with a postprandial burning sensation and epigastric discomfort. Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy revealed diffuse white plaques along the esophageal mucosa, and histopathological examination confirmed Candida hyphae. The patient was treated with oral fluconazole, resulting in rapid clinical and endoscopic improvement. This case highlights the importance of considering esophageal candidiasis in the differential diagnosis of upper gastrointestinal symptoms after bariatric surgery, even in immunocompetent patients.
