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Invasive infection with Saccharomyces cerevisiae: report of three cases and review
J N Aucott1, J Fayen, H Grossnicklas
1Department of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio 44106.
Abstract:
Saccharomyces cerevisiae (brewer's or baker's yeast) is a common colonizer of human mucosal surfaces, but its role as a clinically important pathogen has been unclear. We report three cases of life-threatening invasive infection with S. cerevisiae resulting in pneumonia, liver abscess and sepsis, and disseminated infection with cardiac tamponade, respectively. A review of the English-language literature reveals 14 other cases of saccharomyces infection in humans. Severe immunosuppression, prolonged hospitalization, prior antibiotic therapy, and/or prosthetic cardiac valves are the settings where saccharomyces infection has been observed. Because Saccharomyces can be a common saprophytic contaminant, biopsy and pathologic confirmation of infection are often necessary for a definitive diagnosis. Amphotericin B is the treatment of choice for serious infections with this organism.
Insights
Saccharomyces cerevisiae, a common yeast, can cause severe invasive infections like pneumonia and sepsis in immunocompromised patients. Early diagnosis and Amphotericin B treatment are crucial for managing these rare but life-threatening Saccharomyces infections.
Area of Science:
- Medical Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
- Clinical Microbiology
Background:
- Saccharomyces cerevisiae (brewer's or baker's yeast) frequently colonizes human mucosal surfaces.
- Its role as a significant human pathogen has remained largely undefined.
- Distinguishing Saccharomyces infection from contamination is clinically challenging.