Emergence of Magnusiomyces capitatus infections in Western Nepal

Area of Science:

• Medical Mycology
• Infectious Diseases
• Clinical Microbiology

Background:

• Magnusiomyces capitatus is recognized as an opportunistic yeast, primarily noted in the Mediterranean region.
• Opportunistic fungal infections pose a growing threat, particularly to vulnerable patient populations.

Observation:

• This study documents the first reported cases of Magnusiomyces capitatus infection and colonization in Nepal.
• Seven cases were identified at a tertiary care center, with most patients being elderly, immunocompromised, and having comorbidities.
• A history of close contact with livestock and poultry was noted in several patients.

Findings:

• Isolates were confirmed using phenotypic methods and genotypic sequencing (ITS and D1/D2 regions of 26S rDNA).
• Molecular typing was performed using amplified fragment length polymorphism.
• Minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) revealed varying susceptibility to antifungal agents, with notable activity against fluconazole and voriconazole.

Implications:

• The emergence of M. capitatus in Nepal necessitates heightened clinical suspicion and diagnostic vigilance.
• Infectious disease specialists and clinicians should be aware of this yeast as a potential cause of infection in at-risk individuals.
• Further research into the epidemiology and antifungal resistance patterns of M. capitatus in Nepal is warranted.