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Peripheral thromboembolism associated with Malassezia furfur sepsis
Alexander T Kessler1, Athena P Kourtis, Neal Simon
1Department of Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA.
Abstract:
Malassezia furfur fungemia can cause sepsis in low birth weight neonates receiving parenteral lipids through central intravenous catheters. Its presentation has varied from nonspecific signs and symptoms to pulmonary vasculitis and endocarditis. We report the case of a premature infant who developed peripheral thromboembolic phenomena without evidence of endocarditis associated with M. furfur fungemia, an association not previously described.
Insights
Malassezia furfur fungemia can cause sepsis in premature infants. This case highlights peripheral thromboembolic phenomena as a potential complication, even without endocarditis.
Area of Science:
- Neonatology
- Infectious Diseases
- Pediatric Cardiology
Background:
- Malassezia furfur fungemia is a known cause of sepsis in premature neonates, particularly those receiving parenteral nutrition.
- Clinical presentations range from nonspecific symptoms to severe complications like pulmonary vasculitis and endocarditis.
Observation:
- A premature infant receiving central intravenous lipids developed M. furfur fungemia.
- The infant presented with peripheral thromboembolic phenomena.
Findings:
- This case describes a novel association between Malassezia furfur fungemia and peripheral thromboembolic phenomena in a neonate.
- Endocarditis was not evident in this patient, differentiating it from previously reported cases.
Implications:
- Recognizing peripheral thromboembolism as a potential manifestation of M. furfur fungemia is crucial for timely diagnosis and management in neonates.
- This finding expands the spectrum of clinical presentations associated with M. furfur fungemia in this vulnerable population.