A Rare Cause of Urinary Tract Obstruction (The Hidden Fungal Culprit)

Background: Fungal infections of the urinary tract are not uncommon, but occasionally, these infections can take a more unusual and troubling turn, with the formation of what is known as a fungal ball.A fungal ball in the urinary bladder is an uncommon entity. It presents a unique clinical challenge, especially in pediatric and immunocompromised populations(1,3,4). These masses are typically formed by Candidaspecies, most commonly Candida albicansorCandidatropicalis, (1,4), and can lead to hydronephrosis, urinary retention, and sepsis if not promptly diagnosed and treated. (2,3). Case presentation: We report the case of a seven-month-old-child presenting with the retention of urine, low-grade fever, diarrhea, and bad perineal hygiene. Obstruction was relieved by urinary catheterization in the emergency department.The patient subsequently underwent cystoscopic intervention for the extraction of the obstructing mass, followed by administration of systemic antifungal therapy.Conclusion: Although infrequent, fungal ball formation within the urinary tract represents a potentially severe condition that requires swift identification and coordinated management across specialties.It serves as a stark reminder of how opportunistic infections can manifest in unexpected ways, particularly in vulnerable patients. Timely diagnosis and intervention are crucial, not only to remove the obstruction but to restore normal urinary flow and prevent long-term renal damage. (1,5)