In immunocompromised patients, antibiotic use may lead to which complication?

• A. Bacterial superinfection
• B. Parasitic infestation
• C. Fungal overgrowth
• D. Viral reactivation

Answer: (C)

Antibiotics disrupt the normal bacterial flora, removing the competition that keeps fungi in check. In immunocompromised patients, this disruption allows opportunistic fungi, especially Candida species, to overgrow and potentially cause mucosal infections (like thrush or vaginal candidiasis) or even invasive disease in the bloodstream. While bacterial superinfection can occur, the scenario described most characteristically leads to fungal overgrowth due to dysbiosis and reduced immune defense. Parasitic infestations and viral reactivation are not direct, common consequences of antibiotic use in this context.