Pseudozyma spp catheter-associated blood stream infection, an emerging pathogen and brief literature review

Wajid Siddiqui1, Yasir Ahmed2, Helmut Albrecht3

  • 1Department of Infectious Diseases, Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital, Albany, Georgia, USA.

BMJ Case Reports
|December 16, 2014
PubMed

Insights

Pseudozyma yeasts rarely cause human infections, but can lead to central venous catheter infections. Early recognition and specific antifungal treatment are crucial for successful outcomes.

Area of Science:

  • Medical Mycology
  • Infectious Diseases

Background:

  • Pseudozyma yeasts are typically plant pathogens with rare human infections.
  • Central venous catheter (CVC)-associated bloodstream infections (BSIs) are uncommon.
  • Reported risk factors include bowel surgery, CVCs, and total parenteral nutrition.

Observation:

  • A rare case of Pseudozyma spp catheter-associated bloodstream infection is presented.
  • The patient had a central venous catheter (CVC).

Findings:

  • Successful treatment involved antifungal therapy and CVC removal.
  • Pseudozyma spp exhibit variable resistance to fluconazole.
  • Amphotericin B or voriconazole may be necessary for treatment.

Implications:

  • Highlights the importance of identifying Pseudozyma spp in clinical settings.
  • Guides appropriate antifungal selection for Pseudozyma BSIs.
  • Emphasizes the need for vigilance in immunocompromised patients with CVCs.

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