T-cell depletion and oral candidiasis in Kyasanur Forest disease: a case series.

BACKGROUND

Kyasanur Forest Disease (KFD) is a tick-borne viral haemorrhagic fever endemic to southern India.

METHODS

We present a case series of five PCR-confirmed patients with KFD who developed oral candidiasis. CD4 and CD8 T-lymphocyte counts were measured using flow cytometry alongside detailed clinical assessment.

RESULTS

All five patients with candidiasis had CD4 counts <300 cells/µl, and four had CD8 counts <200 cells/µl. None had other known immunosuppressive conditions.

CONCLUSION

CD4 and CD8 lymphopenia are consistent and clinically relevant features among patients with KFD who developed oral candidiasis, suggesting transient mucosal immune suppression as a potential pathogenic mechanism.