Fungal Peritonitis: Causes, Risks, and What You Need to Know

When fungal peritonitis, a rare but dangerous infection of the peritoneum caused by fungi, often Candida species. Also known as candida peritonitis, it doesn’t happen in healthy people—it’s a red flag that something else is wrong. This isn’t just a bad stomach bug. It’s a systemic threat that shows up mostly in people on long-term peritoneal dialysis, those with weakened immune systems, or after abdominal surgery or prolonged antibiotic use.

Most cases are tied to Candida, a type of yeast that normally lives harmlessly in the gut but can turn dangerous when it escapes into the abdominal cavity. Antibiotics wipe out the good bacteria that keep Candida in check, letting it grow unchecked. In dialysis patients, the catheter used for treatment becomes a direct path for fungi to enter the peritoneum. Even a tiny tear or contamination during fluid exchange can spark infection. People with diabetes, cancer, or those on steroids or chemotherapy are also at higher risk because their bodies can’t fight back the way they should.

Antifungal treatment, the standard approach to fungal peritonitis, often requires strong drugs like fluconazole or amphotericin B, sometimes given directly into the abdomen. But here’s the catch: it’s not always easy to diagnose. Symptoms like abdominal pain, fever, and cloudy dialysis fluid can look like bacterial infections—so labs must test for fungi specifically. Many cases are missed until it’s too late. That’s why anyone on dialysis or with a compromised immune system should know the warning signs and push for fungal testing if antibiotics don’t help.

The real problem? Fungal peritonitis doesn’t just stay in the belly. It can spread to the bloodstream, causing sepsis. Mortality rates are high—up to 50% in some studies—even with treatment. That’s why prevention matters more than cure. Keeping dialysis equipment sterile, washing hands before handling lines, and avoiding unnecessary antibiotics can cut your risk dramatically. If you’ve been on antibiotics for weeks and suddenly feel worse, don’t assume it’s just a stomach bug. Ask about fungi.

Below, you’ll find real-world guides on managing infections, understanding drug interactions, and protecting your body when medications weaken your defenses. From probiotics during antibiotic therapy to spotting dangerous contamination in generics, these posts help you stay ahead of hidden risks. You’re not just reading about drugs—you’re learning how to outsmart the systems that can turn treatment into danger.