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Updated: Apr 21, 2026
Dissection of Saccharomyces Cerevisiae Asci
Published on: May 19, 2009
Invasive Saccharomyces cerevisiae infection: a friend turning foe?
Unnikrishnan Pillai1, Joe Devasahayam, Aparna Narayana Kurup
1Department of Internal Medicine, St. Mary's HealthCenter, St. Louis, MO, USA.
Abstract:
We report a very rare case of acute pyelonephritis in a 51-year-old female with a history of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and diabetes caused by a normally benign and a well-known human commensal organism, Saccharomyces cerevisiae that is very often prescribed as a probiotic in modern medical practice. The causal role of S. cerevisiae was confirmed by its isolation in blood, urine, stool as well as vaginal swabs thus proving its virulent nature in suitable situations.
Insights
A rare case of acute pyelonephritis was caused by Saccharomyces cerevisiae, a common probiotic. This yeast demonstrated virulence when isolated from blood, urine, stool, and vaginal swabs in a patient with chronic kidney disease and diabetes.
Area of Science:
- Medical Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
- Nephrology
Background:
- Yeast infections are typically associated with Candida species.
- Saccharomyces cerevisiae is a well-known human commensal, often used as a probiotic.
- Patients with chronic kidney disease and diabetes are at increased risk for infections.
Observation:
- A 51-year-old female with chronic kidney disease and diabetes presented with acute pyelonephritis.
- The patient had a history of probiotic use, including Saccharomyces cerevisiae.
Findings:
- Saccharomyces cerevisiae was identified as the causative agent of acute pyelonephritis.
- The yeast was isolated from multiple body sites, including blood, urine, stool, and vaginal swabs.
- This case highlights the potential for Saccharomyces cerevisiae to act as an opportunistic pathogen.
Implications:
- Clinicians should consider Saccharomyces cerevisiae in the differential diagnosis of infections, especially in immunocompromised patients or those with underlying conditions like chronic kidney disease and diabetes.
- The widespread use of Saccharomyces cerevisiae as a probiotic warrants careful consideration of its potential for causing invasive infections.
- Further research is needed to understand the mechanisms of virulence and identify risk factors for Saccharomyces cerevisiae infections.
