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Published on: October 27, 2013
Kodamaea ohmeri as an emerging pathogen: a case report and review of the literature
Noura Al-Sweih1, Zia U Khan, Suhail Ahmad
1Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Kuwait University, Shuwaikh, Kuwait.
Abstract:
Kodamaea (Pichia) ohmeri is a yeast-like fungus that has recently emerged as an important etiologic agent of fungemia in immunocompromised patients. We report such a case in a premature neonate born at 29 weeks of gestation. Prior to developing fungemia, she had two episodes of bacterial sepsis on day 13 and day 32 due to Enterobacter cloacae and Staphylococcus epidermidis, respectively. Kodamaea ohmeri was repeatedly isolated from blood cultures and its identity was determined by phenotypic characteristics and sequencing of the ITS and D1/D2 regions of rDNA. The neonate was successfully treated with amphotericin B. The published cases of K. ohmeri fungemia reported in pediatric patients are reviewed highlighting its increasing importance as a bloodstream pathogen.
Insights
Kodamaea ohmeri fungemia is an emerging threat in premature infants. This case highlights successful treatment with amphotericin B and the importance of recognizing this yeast as a bloodstream pathogen.
Area of Science:
- Medical Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
- Neonatal Care
Background:
- Kodamaea (Pichia) ohmeri is an emerging fungal pathogen causing fungemia, particularly in immunocompromised individuals.
- Fungal bloodstream infections (fungemia) pose significant risks to vulnerable patient populations.
Observation:
- A case of Kodamaea ohmeri fungemia is presented in a premature neonate (29 weeks gestation).
- The neonate had prior episodes of bacterial sepsis.
- The yeast was identified through phenotypic methods and rDNA sequencing (ITS and D1/D2 regions).
Findings:
- Kodamaea ohmeri was successfully eradicated using amphotericin B treatment.
- The study reviews pediatric cases, underscoring K. ohmeri's rising role as a bloodstream pathogen.
Implications:
- This case emphasizes the need for heightened awareness of K. ohmeri in neonatal intensive care units.
- Early diagnosis and appropriate antifungal therapy are crucial for managing K. ohmeri fungemia in neonates.
- Further research into K. ohmeri epidemiology in pediatric populations is warranted.
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