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Saccharomyces cerevisiae fungemia: an emerging infectious disease

Patricia Muñoz1, Emilio Bouza, Manuel Cuenca-Estrella

  • 1Department of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain. pmunoz@micro.hggm.es

Clinical Infectious Diseases : an Official Publication of the Infectious Diseases Society of America
|May 13, 2005
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Saccharomyces cerevisiae probiotics, commonly used for digestive health, were linked to bloodstream infections (fungemia) in critically ill patients. Discontinuing the probiotic halted the outbreak, suggesting careful reassessment of its use in vulnerable populations.

Area of Science:

  • Medical Mycology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Clinical Microbiology

Background:

  • Saccharomyces cerevisiae is widely utilized in food production and as a human probiotic.
  • Despite its common use, Saccharomyces cerevisiae is an infrequent cause of human infections.

Observation:

  • An outbreak of Saccharomyces cerevisiae fungemia occurred in an intensive care unit (ICU).
  • The sole identified risk factor was the use of a Saccharomyces boulardii-containing probiotic.
  • Identical DNA fingerprinting confirmed the probiotic as the source of clinical isolates.

Findings:

  • The probiotic Saccharomyces boulardii was identified as the source of S. cerevisiae fungemia in three ICU patients.
  • Patients received the probiotic via nasogastric tube, with a mean duration of 8.5 days prior to positive cultures.
  • Literature review revealed 57 additional cases, with 60% in ICUs and 71% receiving nutritional support.

Implications:

  • The use of Saccharomyces cerevisiae probiotics requires careful re-evaluation, especially in immunocompromised and critically ill individuals.
  • Healthcare providers should consider the potential risks associated with probiotic use in susceptible patient populations.
  • This study highlights the importance of source identification and control in preventing yeast-related bloodstream infections.

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