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Kodamaea ohmeri isolate from two immunocompromised patients: first report in Italy
1Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy. iolanda.santino@uniroma1.it
Abstract:
Kodamaea ohmeri is an unusual yeast-form fungus that has recently been identified as an important aetiological agent of fungaemia, endocarditis, cellulitis, funguria and peritonitis in immunocompromised patients. We present two new isolated of K. ohmeri. The microorganisms were identified by CHROMagar Candida medium, VitekII system and API ID32C. Biochemical identification of the two yeast isolates was confirmed by sequence analysis of the 26S ribosomal DNA. Antifungal susceptibility testing done by Sensititre YeastOne showed that the isolates were susceptible to amphotericin B, voriconazole and itraconazole. This work is the first report of isolation of K. ohmeri in immunocompromised patients in Italy.
Insights
Kodamaea ohmeri, a yeast-form fungus, is increasingly causing serious infections in immunocompromised individuals. This study reports two new cases in Italy, detailing identification and successful antifungal susceptibility.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
- Clinical Microbiology
Background:
- Kodamaea ohmeri is an emerging fungal pathogen causing severe infections like fungemia and endocarditis, particularly in immunocompromised patients.
- The increasing prevalence of opportunistic fungal infections necessitates detailed characterization of etiological agents.
Observation:
- Two new isolates of Kodamaea ohmeri were identified in immunocompromised patients.
- Identification methods included CHROMagar Candida medium, VitekII system, API ID32C, and 26S ribosomal DNA sequencing.
Findings:
- The isolates demonstrated susceptibility to key antifungal drugs: amphotericin B, voriconazole, and itraconazole.
- Biochemical and molecular analyses confirmed the yeast's identity.
Implications:
- This study marks the first report of Kodamaea ohmeri isolation in immunocompromised patients in Italy.
- Findings contribute to understanding the geographic spread and clinical significance of this opportunistic pathogen.
- Susceptibility data informs potential therapeutic strategies against Kodamaea ohmeri infections.
