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Published on: November 20, 2015

[Trichosporon asahii fatal infection in a preterm newborn]

Carlos J Téllez-Castillo1, María Gil-Fortuño, Irene Centelles-Sales

  • 1Laboratorio de Microbiología y Parasitología, Hospital General de Castellón, Castellón de la Plana, España. cartecas@gmail.com

Revista Chilena De Infectologia : Organo Oficial De La Sociedad Chilena De Infectologia
|June 27, 2008
PubMed

Insights

A premature newborn experienced a fatal Trichosporon asahii infection, identified post mortem. This opportunistic yeast is an emerging pathogen in neonatal intensive care units, often presenting with non-specific symptoms and poor outcomes.

Area of Science:

  • Medical Mycology
  • Neonatal Infectious Diseases

Background:

  • Trichosporon asahii is an opportunistic yeast.
  • It is recognized as an emergent pathogen in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs).
  • Infections are often associated with invasive devices like catheters and endotracheal tubes.

Observation:

  • A case of fatal Trichosporon asahii infection in a premature neonate (685g) is presented.
  • The infection was identified post mortem.
  • The yeast was isolated from endovascular catheters and an endotracheal tube.

Findings:

  • Trichosporon asahii can cause serious systemic and nosocomial infections in neonates.
  • Colonization and disease presentation are often non-specific.
  • Clinical presentation is similar to other fungal infections, indicating a poor prognosis.

Implications:

  • Highlights the potential severity of Trichosporon asahii in vulnerable neonates.
  • Emphasizes the need for increased awareness and diagnostic vigilance for this pathogen in NICUs.
  • Suggests that early recognition and management may be crucial for improving outcomes in neonatal fungal infections.

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