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Malassezia Pneumonia: A Rare Complication of Parenteral Nutrition Therapy
Richelle M Baker1,2, Ryan J Stegink3,2, John J Manaloor3,2,4
1Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana rimbaker@iupui.edu.
Abstract:
Malassezia species (formerly known as Pityrosporum) are part of normal human skin flora and have been associated with benign dermatologic conditions, such as seborrheic dermatitis and tinea versicolor. In rare cases, however, Malassezia has been associated with systemic disease in immunocompromised patients and infants in the neonatal intensive care unit. Malassezia species require long-chain fatty acids for growth and therefore have a known predilection for individuals receiving lipid containing intravenous parenteral nutrition (PN). Systemic infections are characterized by prolonged fevers and illness but can include nonspecific signs and symptoms. We present the diagnosis and management of a rare case of an immunocompetent, nonneonatal, PN-dependent child with Malassezia furfur pneumonia.
Insights
Malassezia furfur pneumonia is a rare infection, typically seen in immunocompromised individuals. This case highlights its occurrence in an immunocompetent child dependent on parenteral nutrition.
Area of Science:
- Medical Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
- Pediatric Medicine
Background:
- Malassezia species are common skin flora, usually causing benign dermatological conditions.
- Systemic Malassezia infections are rare, primarily affecting immunocompromised patients and neonates.
- Malassezia requires long-chain fatty acids, predisposing patients on lipid-containing parenteral nutrition (PN) to infection.
Observation:
- The study presents a rare case of Malassezia furfur pneumonia.
- The patient was an immunocompetent, non-neonatal child requiring long-term PN.
- The child experienced prolonged fevers and non-specific symptoms.
Findings:
- Diagnosis involved identifying Malassezia furfur as the causative agent of pneumonia.
- Management strategies for this rare fungal pneumonia were implemented.
- The case highlights a unique presentation of Malassezia infection.
Implications:
- This case expands the understanding of Malassezia infections beyond typical risk groups.
- It underscores the importance of considering fungal etiologies in PN-dependent patients with prolonged fevers.
- The findings may inform diagnostic and treatment approaches for rare systemic fungal infections.
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