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Prototheca algaemia: a rare but fatal opportunistic infection among immunocompromised individuals

Chun-Ting Yeh1, Ming-Chi Li, Yin-Ching Chuang

  • 1Department of Internal Medicine, Chi Mei Medical Center.

Japanese Journal of Infectious Diseases
|November 26, 2013
PubMed

Insights

Prototheca infections, known as Prototheca algaemia, affect many patients. This rare algae-associated infection has a high mortality rate, especially in immunocompromised individuals.

Area of Science:

  • Medical Mycology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Clinical Microbiology

Background:

  • Prototheca species are ubiquitous algae that can cause infections in humans.
  • These infections, termed Prototheca algaemia, occur in both immunocompetent and immunocompromised individuals.
  • Prototheca algaemia is increasingly recognized as a healthcare-associated infection.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the clinical characteristics and outcomes of Prototheca algaemia.
  • To identify risk factors and prognostic indicators for this rare infection.

Main Methods:

  • A retrospective review of 14 cases of Prototheca algaemia over five decades.
  • Inclusion of 2 recent cases from the study hospitals.
  • Analysis of species, patient demographics, clinical presentation, treatment, and outcomes.

Main Results:

  • Prototheca wickerhamii was the most frequently identified species.
  • The overall mortality rate was 62.5%.
  • Prototheca algaemia was predominantly observed in immunocompromised patients, indicating a poor prognosis.

Conclusions:

  • Prototheca algaemia is a rare but serious infection with a high mortality rate.
  • Immunocompromised status is a significant risk factor for developing Prototheca algaemia.
  • Early diagnosis and appropriate management are crucial for improving patient outcomes.

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